Jeremiah 2:1-13

Read: Jeremiah 2:1-13

'My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.' (v.13)

Encounter: I’m a fixer. If you come to me with a problem, then I’ll build you a solution. I like systems and spreadsheets, timelines and plans. At work, there’s nothing I love more than a good strategy session, plotting world domination in three easy steps! 

Whilst there’s nothing wrong with a good system, Jeremiah reminds the people of Israel of the dangers of abandoning God in favour of the systems we build ourselves. The perils of putting our faith in human endeavour rather than in the Creator of the universe. Our purpose, our satisfaction, our life can only be found in Jesus. The moment that we try to find it in our job, our family, or ourselves we’re in trouble. 

Equally we cannot place our faith in the systems of this world. Politics, economics, education can all be forces for good but like broken cisterns they cannot hold our hopes and dreams. Jesus is the only light of the world. 

Apply: Where are you placing your hope? Who do you turn to in times of trouble? This world offers solutions and strategies, but we must always turn to Jesus. Are there areas of your life where you have abandoned the living waters of God and dug your own leaky cisterns? It’s time to throw them away and return to the sweet fresh water that only Jesus can provide. 

Devote: Jesus, thank you that you are a spring of living water. Please show me the places where I am not relying on you and help me to turn back to you.