Compare Jeremiah 17:5 with Proverbs 3:5-6. What similarities do you find? Scripture Texts “Thus says the LORD: Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD.” “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Core Similarities • Both passages draw a sharp line between trusting God and trusting human resources. • Each text highlights the heart’s posture as decisive. • Consequences follow trust choices—either curse or straight paths. • The contrast hinges on reliance: “man/flesh” versus “the LORD.” Heart Attitude • Jeremiah warns that a heart “turns away from the LORD” when we place ultimate confidence in people or ourselves. • Proverbs calls for wholehearted trust—“with all your heart.” No partial allegiance is acceptable (cf. Matthew 6:24). • Both insist that inward orientation toward God determines outward outcomes. Source of Confidence • Jeremiah labels human strength “flesh,” inherently limited and unreliable (cf. Psalm 146:3-5; Isaiah 31:1). • Proverbs cautions against leaning on personal understanding—our intellect is finite and prone to error (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:19). • Trust in the LORD recognizes His sovereignty, wisdom, and covenant faithfulness (Psalm 118:8-9). Resulting Outcomes • Jeremiah: Trusting man → curse, spiritual barrenness (vv. 6-8 continue this picture). • Proverbs: Trusting the LORD → guidance, “paths straight,” a life directed by divine wisdom (cf. Psalm 32:8). • The principle mirrors Galatians 6:7-8—sowing to the flesh reaps corruption; sowing to the Spirit reaps life. Takeaway for Today • Every decision asks, “Will I rely on human insight or on God’s revealed Word?” • Wholehearted trust expresses itself by rejecting self-reliance, acknowledging Him in every sphere—family, work, ministry, finances. • The promise is clear: God steers the hearts that surrender, while self-trust invites frustration and spiritual drought. |
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