The word came to Jeremiah from the Lord after Nebuzaradan commander of the imperial guard had released him at Ramah. He had found Jeremiah bound in chains among all the captives from Jerusalem and Judah who were being carried into exile to Babylon.
Jeremiah 40:1 NIV
In times of uncertainty, we may find ourselves questioning whether God’s promises will truly come to pass. Yet, the Bible reassures us that God can deliver His faithful servants. And when He declares such deliverance, no force on earth can prevent it. The story of Jeremiah’s rescue in Jeremiah 39-40 is a powerful demonstration of God’s deliverance and faithfulness.
In Jeremiah 39, Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, issued a command concerning Jeremiah to Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard. He instructed him to ensure Jeremiah’s safety, not to harm him, and to provide for his needs. This divine protection stood in stark contrast to the destruction that had come upon Jerusalem, highlighting how God’s deliverance operates even in the midst of turmoil.
As we move into Jeremiah 40, we see the fulfilment of this promise unfold. Amidst the chaos of war, Nebuzaradan took the time to search for Jeremiah among the captives. Verse 1 describes how Jeremiah was already bound in chains, counted among those being led into exile. At that moment, it might have seemed as though God had forgotten him, lost in the crowd, and left to an uncertain fate. Yet, God’s word concerning him had already gone forth, and nothing could overturn it.
A striking detail in this account is the phrase “he found him.” This suggests a deliberate effort, an intentional search to ensure that Jeremiah was freed according to the command given. This is a profound reminder that when God speaks a word over our lives, He watches over it to bring it to pass. Even when situations seem to contradict His promises, He orchestrates events, aligns circumstances, and moves people to fulfil His divine plan. This is the essence of God’s deliverance—His unwavering commitment to rescuing His children at the appointed time.
Jeremiah’s experience mirrors the struggles we often encounter in our faith journey. There are seasons when God’s promises seem delayed, and circumstances appear to contradict what He has spoken over our lives. Like Jeremiah, we may find ourselves asking, “Lord, this is not what You promised me. How will You fulfil Your word?” Yet, just as Nebuzaradan looked for Jeremiah and set him free at the right time, so too will God’s plans for our lives come to pass in His perfect timing.
This passage strengthens our confidence in God’s faithfulness. It teaches us that even in moments of captivity—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—God’s word remains unshaken. He ensures that His promises come to fruition in due season. Our role is to hold on in faith, trusting that His timing is flawless and His plans never fail.