True Wisdom: Knowing and Understanding the Lord

the person reading a Bible with a peaceful expression on their face

In a world that often celebrates worldly achievements and material possessions, the words of Jeremiah 9:23-24 offer a refreshing perspective on true wisdom and boasting rights:

“Thus says the Lord: ‘Do not let the wise boast in their wisdom, do not let the mighty boast in their might, do not let the wealthy boast in their wealth; but let those who boast in this, that they understand and know me, that I am the Lord; I act with steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight,’ says the Lord.”

This passage challenges us to reassess our priorities and redefine our sources of pride. It urges us to not place our worth in fleeting earthly pursuits but instead to seek a deeper understanding and relationship with God.

True wisdom, according to Jeremiah, lies in knowing and understanding the Lord – a knowledge that goes beyond mere intellectual comprehension. It involves a deep personal connection with God, a recognition of His character and attributes, and a commitment to live by His ways.

This true wisdom is not limited to scholars or theologians; it is accessible to all who seek it with sincerity and humility. It is a wisdom that transforms lives, bringing about a deeper sense of purpose, peace, and fulfilment.

The verse also highlights three key attributes of God: steadfast love, justice, and righteousness. These attributes form the foundation of God’s character and provide a framework for understanding His actions.

Steadfast love, or chesed in Hebrew, is a deeply rooted and enduring love, one that is unwavering and unconditional. It is a love that is not swayed by circumstances or shortcomings but remains steadfast even in the face of human weakness and sin.

Justice, in the biblical sense, is not merely about fairness or punishment; it is about upholding what is right and restoring order to a world marred by injustice and oppression. God’s justice is not blind or arbitrary; it is guided by His wisdom and love, seeking to bring about a world where all are treated with dignity and respect.

Righteousness, or tzedakah in Hebrew, is about living by God’s standards and principles. It is about aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with His will, seeking to reflect His character in our daily lives.

These three attributes – steadfast love, justice, and righteousness – are not abstract concepts; they are tangible expressions of God’s character that have profound implications for our lives. When we seek to understand and know God, we are not simply gaining intellectual knowledge; we are opening ourselves to a relationship with a being who embodies love, justice, and righteousness.

In a world that often glorifies self-promotion and self-reliance, Jeremiah’s words remind us of the true source of pride and boasting – a deep understanding and relationship with God.

It is in this relationship that we find true wisdom, purpose, and fulfilment.

Resources:

• The Holy Bible

• “The Message of Jeremiah” by John Bright

• “Jeremiah: The Prophet of Lament” by Derek Kidner

• “The Preacher’s Commentary: Jeremiah” by F. F. Bruce

🌹Each morning, I receive an inspiring wake-up call from His Excellency, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Selvister Ponnumuthan, the Bishop of Punalur in Kerala, India. Today’s blog post draws inspiration from the verses he shared in his morning message.

🌾 “Fueling Positivity” (RiseNinspireHub)