13 But if ye say, We will not dwell in this land, neither obey the voice of the Lord your God,
13 "However, if you say, 'We will not stay in this land,' and so disobey the Lord your God,
13 But if you say, 'We will not remain in this land,' disobeying the voice of the Lord your God
13 "But do not say, 'We're not staying around this place,' refusing to obey the command of your God
13 "But if you say, 'We will not dwell in this land,' disobeying the voice of the Lord your God,
13 "But if you refuse to obey the Lord your God, and if you say, 'We will not stay here;
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Jeremiah 42:13
Commentary on Jeremiah 42:7-22
(Read Jeremiah 42:7-22)
If we would know the mind of the Lord in doubtful cases, we must wait as well as pray. God is ever ready to return in mercy to those he has afflicted; and he never rejects any who rely on his promises. He has declared enough to silence even the causeless fears of his people, which discourge them in the way of duty. Whatever loss or suffering we may fear from obedience, is provided against in God's word; and he will protect and deliver all who trust in him and serve him. It is folly to quit our place, especially to quit a holy land, because we meet with trouble in it. And the evils we think to escape by sin, we certainly bring upon ourselves. We may apply this to the common troubles of life; and those who think to avoid them by changing their place, will find that the grievances common to men will meet them wherever they go. Sinners who dissemble with God in solemn professions especially should be rebuked with sharpness; for their actions speak more plainly than words. We know not what is good for ourselves; and what we are most fond of, and have our hearts most set upon, often proves hurtful, and sometimes fatal.