”This is what the LORD says: "Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the LORD.
Jeremiah 17:5New International Version (NIV)
Jeremiah 17:5 Devotional
Cursed is the one who trusts in man
Jeremiah 17:5 says, “Cursed is the one who trusts in man“. This is because it is easy for a man to seek help and guidance from fellow humans, rather than from God and what He has promised.
However, this is one of the three (3) causes of Judah’s failure as identified in 17:1-13. This a departure from how things were under David’s rule, where God’s people (Israel) had gained strength and uprightness through obedience to God’s law.
David’s successors sought self-exaltation. Thus, they ascribed to themselves the glory for the kingdom’s greatness. They forgot how utterly dependent they were upon God. And they considered themselves to be wise and independent of Him.
Therefore, they became corrupt, and immoral, and rebelled against God. They turned away from Him to the worship of idols.
But God was patient with them. He often called them to repentance. But His calls fell on deaf ears.
Finally, God spoke in judgment. He showed them how weak they were without Him. He gave them to their enemies, who spoiled their land, and took the people captive.
Does God help those who help themselves?
“God helps those who help themselves” is a statement I have heard from many Christians. They even quote it as a Bible verse, even on pulpits.
Such a statement is a claim that we can do without God. Or we can help Him handle the issues in our lives. And this is of course false.
Self-sufficiency is a deception of the highest degree. It is being self-centered and pursuing your own glory.
However, the reality is that self-sufficiency is a curse as it is a faithless life (Psalm 118:8-9).
Prayer
Lord, I repent for thinking and acting in a self-sufficient manner. I cannot do without You. My full trust in You in the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Blessing
I declare that you’re not cursed; you’re blessed because you trust in God. Amen.
Daily Bible Reading
Judges 3-5 (see How to Read the Bible in One Year or How to Read the Bible (for Beginners))
