Read Jeremiah 17:5-10
Jeremiah ascended to the status of my favorite prophet when I was a kid. His words—strong in the face of a disobedient culture—resonated with me even back then. When he spoke our text for today, Jeremiah was in the midst of a politically turbulent time. One massive empire was still visible in the rear view as the next empire rose before him. When I peer across the landscape of current media and compare Jeremiah’s time to present day, I see similar themes.
In Jeremiah’s day the people had turned to idols and sought comfort in temporal things instead of eternal rewards. Today we are surrounded by a culture that idolizes fame and wealth, thrives on instant gratification, and seeks to establish its own version of truth. In rejecting the love of God, we have forsaken our true strength. “This is what the Lord says: ‘Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh’” (v. 5).
Jeremiah’s message is that we don’t have the strength in our flesh to overcome our own weaknesses: temptation, disobedience, uncertainty, or heartbreak. It is only through the Messiah, our Saviour, that we have the strength to be content through all things (Phillipians 4:13).
I want to encourage you with two ways not to rely on your own strength (I know it’s easier said than done!). First, find confidence in trusting the LORD, our God and King. Believe that HE made you for greater things and remember to give yourself grace—you’ve made it this far. Second, iron sharpens iron, so be part of HIS community. Saints: we should not face the world or wrestle our weakness alone. Our willpower alone is not enough. Peter knew what to watch for but his willpower was not enough, so he denied Jesus three times (Matthew 22:54-62).
Between the crucifixion and Pentecost, the disciples stayed together for the safety found in numbers. The community that was gathered in the upper room when the day of Pentecost came (Acts 2) received a special gifting of the Holy Spirit and Peter switched from denying to proclaiming Christ to all nations.
As you’ve let go of things during Lent, making space to let God work, be a branch that stays connected. Find support in the community of Christ.
For reflection:
- Who are you connected with that helps you stay ‘rooted’ in God’s Word? If you can’t think of anyone, start praying today for God to bring them into your life!
by Ken Wilson
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