(Read Jeremiah 21:1-10)
When the siege had begun, Zedekiah sent to ask of Jeremiah respecting the event. In times of distress and danger, men often seek those to counsel and pray for them, whom, at other times, they despise and oppose; but they only seek deliverance from punishment. When professors continue in disobedience, presuming upon outward privileges, let them be told that the Lord will prosper his open enemies against them. As the king and his princes would not surrender, the people are exhorted to do so. No sinner on earth is left without a Refuge, who really desires one; but the way of life is humbling, it requires self-denial, and exposes to difficulties.
For a more detailed summary select the link below.
Jeremiah 21 Bible Commentary – Matthew Henry (concise) (christianity.com)
Jeremiah 21:8
8 “You shall say to this people, ‘Yahweh says: “Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death.