Text: Jeremiah 20:1-6
Pashhur whose name means either “lease” or “deliverance” was the Chief Governor, meaning he was chief official in charge of the Temple Police; but not high priest.
Because of his evil acts, God changed his name from Pashhur to “Magor Missabib” meaning “Terror on every side” (v.3). He terrorised Prophet Jeremiah by putting him in stocks (putting hands, feet and neck fastened in holes causing pain to the body) and giving him forty lashes (v.2). This was after Jeremiah had given a tough prophecy at Ben Hinnom and at the temple; both places attracted many false worshipers. For Pashhur, instead of repenting and leading many to repent, he attacked the Prophet of God.
In the midst of evil, we pray for our leaders not to hurt innocent people, especially those who expose their iniquity; instead they should repent and lead many to repent (Acts 2: 37-39).
Meditate on verse 3. Note the boldness of Jeremiah, how are you going to apply it to your life?
My Lord and heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, give me the boldness to stand up for Your truth against all evils, especially those perpetuated by people in authority against helpless or innocent people. Amen.