Text: Jeremiah 13:1-14
Nehemiah is told to buy a linen sash or belt, put it on his waist, then remove it and bury it near river Euphrates where it will be ruined and become useless (vv.1-4). The linen sash was symbolic, it showed Israel’s close relationship with God as they glorified Him (v.11); but now Israel had become useless because of Sin (v.10). The burial of the sash near river Euphrates, was a prophetic gesture, to show that Israel will go into exile in Babylon, where the river is located.
Generally in the Old Testament, and in the Book of Jeremiah in particular, wine is symbolic of God’s anger (vv.12-14). See (25:15-16; 48:26; 49:12; 51:39- 57; Ps. 60:3 Isa. 51:17,22). Because of disobedience, God’s anger is burning against the whole nation; the kings on David’s throne, the priests, the prophets,
and the whole inhabitants of Jerusalem (v.13).
When Uganda is ranked in the world as one of the nations with the highest alcohol consumption rates, do not take it lightly. It should cause one to cry and intercede to the Lord and repent on behalf of the nation.
Meditate on verses 3-4. What is God teaching you in these verses?
Merciful and Omnipotent Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I pray that You behold our country, Uganda, with Your mercy; do not treat us as our sins deserve in Your anger; but cleanse us of all wrong-doing as a nation. Amen.