Jeremiah 43:7
So they came into the land of Egypt: for they obeyed not the voyce of the Lord, thus came they euen to Tahpanhes. Jeremiah 43:7 (KJV)
Jeremiah 43 records a painful moment after the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonian army. The remnant of Judah, fearing the advancing Babylonians, fled to Egypt seeking safety. They approached the prophet Jeremiah for counsel, and he faithfully relayed the Lord’s warning that going to Egypt would bring destruction. Despite the clear warning, the people refused to listen and proceeded to Egypt.
The verse itself states that the people went into the land of Egypt because they “obeyed not the voice of the LORD.” It then notes that they “came even to Tahpanhes,” a city in Egypt that had become a refuge for many Jews fleeing the Babylonian onslaught. Their journey to Tahpanhes therefore represents a concrete step taken in direct disobedience to God’s spoken word through Jeremiah.
From this passage three key lessons emerge. First, the importance of obedience is highlighted; the people’s refusal to heed God’s voice led them into further danger. Second, the passage warns against relying on human understanding or worldly security instead of trusting God’s guidance. The people believed Egypt would protect them, yet their self‑reliance resulted in downfall. Third, the consequences of ignoring divine warnings are evident—disobedience opens the way to hardship and destruction, underscoring God’s desire that His people turn from sinful paths.
Applying this truth today calls believers to attentive listening to God’s Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit. When faced with difficult decisions, we must seek God’s will even if it conflicts with our own desires or perceived safety. Guarding against the temptation to depend on our limited understanding, we should place our trust in God’s perfect plans, confident that obedience positions us under His protection and blessing. Jeremiah 43:7 thus serves as a timeless reminder to hear, obey, and trust the voice of the Lord above all else.
