I've always been struck by the boldness of the Psalmists to call God out on bad situations: wicked are prospering, what's up with that, God? Now I've been awed by Jeremiah being brash with God, sharing his perspective: "You deceived Your people...You deceived me." (Jer. 4.10; 20.7)
What were the accusations of deception? For the nation, Jeremiah says that God promised peace and yet destruction prevails. Jeremiah knows peace might be conditional on repentance, return to faith, a refusal to follow other idols. Yet he asserts God deceived His people. Would Jeremiah rank God lower on the trust scale for a lack of integrity? Perhaps this is a way to learn more from YHWH about how He thinks and decides--like Abraham asking God if He would destroy Sodom if ten good men could be found in the city. Moses too was bold enough to tell God that destroying His people in the wilderness would hinder any potential praise from other nations.
Jeremiah's accusation of personal deception happens after he's beaten by a priest and shackled by a very public city gate. It may harken back to when he was called by God to be a prophet. Jeremiah says he's now mocked and become a laughingstock because the message he brings is not pleasant. No one wants to hear him, His words being spoken. God promises that He will protect Jeremiah as long as he is not discouraged. There will be a struggle but Jeremiah will survive (1.8, 19). Maybe Jeremiah doesn't feel like he's surviving. Definitely not thriving.
When I struggle, I might wonder, "God, where are you?" I might ask for circumstances to change. I might whine. I definitely haven't alleged that God broke His promises. Could I? Should I? Might I say to Him, "It's really hard to trust You right now. You're not showing up on time. The promises are unfulfilled. I don't feel safe around you. I'm not sure You can change the situation. Help my unbelief, my distrust"?
But wouldn't we confront a friend if they let us down? Would we confront a boss if they let us down?
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