Jeremiah 9:24

New International Version

Let the one who boasts boast about this:
    that they have the understanding to know me,
that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness,
    justice and righteousness on earth,
    for in these I delight,”
declares the Lord.

For Encouragement

Recent statements by leaders, public figures, and even religious authorities show how much society has moved away from God and toward humanism, selfishness, and greed, which the Bible calls idolatry (Colossians 3:5). Advances in technology, like powerful telescopes, satellites, and fast internet communication, have increased human knowledge and connection. Wealth and power have grown significantly, making many people feel confident and proud. Despite these advances, the world still struggles with racism, wars, and ongoing conflict, pointing to the approaching end-time for this world.

In this context, the Lord issued warnings and guidance to three groups of people in Judah as they faced the Babylonian threat: the wise, the strong, and the rich (Jeremiah 9:22-24). This applies to us, and we do well to heed the Almighty’s voice.

The wise should not brag about their wisdom, because it cannot stop people from facing destruction. The strong should not be proud of their strength, since it cannot guarantee victory in fights and often causes chaos and suffering for countries. Likewise, the rich should not boast about their wealth (23), because riches are very misleading; they encourage pride and lead people to think they can rely on themselves or even be like gods. These attitudes are wrong in the end.

As one commentator points out, it makes little sense to see these qualities as the primary goal of life. True satisfaction comes from understanding God (24).

True wisdom is attained only by encountering Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30). A person may claim to be strong until Almighty God confronts them about their assertions (Job 38–41; 42:1-6). All have sinned (Romans 3:23), except for Jesus Christ, the sinless One, who became sin for humanity so that, in Him, we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Such knowledge is both intimate and sacred. It enables individuals to perceive God’s kindness, justice, and righteousness within a personal relationship with Him (Jeremiah. 9:24). God alone is gracious and upright, and He judges with equity and fairness.

God’s lovingkindness provided Jesus (Jn 3:16; Romans. 5:8). Jesus fulfilled God’s justice at Calvary, granting redemption, the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:13-14). His righteousness has established believers as children of God for eternity in Christ (Romans 8:14-17; Colossians 1:27). God has accomplished all of this because He delights in these acts (Jeremiah. 9:24).

Therefore, it is important to consider the true source of wisdom and strength. Academic and career achievements, social status, and economic or political power cannot provide ultimate security or meaning. Genuine wisdom begins with acknowledging the existence of God (Psalm 14:1; Prov. 9:10) and earnestly seeking Him (Deuteronomy. 4:29). Through this pursuit, one encounters Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, who welcomes all who seek Him (Acts 26:20; Romans 10:9-10, 13; John 1:12-13).

Those who possess this intimacy with Jesus will find joy in offering praise to Him.

Pray with Me

Dear God, I seek to know You intimately through Jesus Christ, Your Son, whom You sacrificed for my redemption and the forgiveness of sins. Please grant me the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that I may know Christ Jesus more fully and receive all that He offers. I rely on Your mercy and grace and accept Your forgiveness in Christ Jesus. Amen.

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