Text: Jeremiah 23:1-22
The Chapter begins with God promising to punish shepherds who mistreat and scatter His people (vv. 1-2). But he also promises to gather His scattered from where they are and make them fruitful (v.3) . The Lord also promises to raise shepherds who will feed His people and will fear no more, nor be dismayed nor lack anything (v.4). Indeed, the Lord raised shepherds like Zerubbabel, Ezra, Nehemiah and others; but they were a minor fulfillment as compared to King Jesus. Jesus Christ is the Branch out of David’s line and He will rule for ever. He will rule with righteousness and will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS (vv. 5-6).
Today, we see shepherds doing evil things, like practicing adultery and lies, just like those in the days of Jeremiah (v.14); they steal from their unsuspecting followers, give false hope and deny people the message of repentance and forgiveness in Jesus’ name. Let Christ be your righteousness and in Him you will have no fear, dismay or lack, for He will be your satisfaction.
Meditate on verse 4. What is God teaching you in this verse?
Gracious Father in heaven, in the name of Jesus Christ, I prayerfully thank You for Jesus Christ, my Saviour and Lord; for in Him I will not fear nor lack. Amen.