How can we avoid being "foolish" as described in Jeremiah 5:4? Setting the Scene Jeremiah ministered to a nation that had drifted far from its covenant God. In chapter 5 he surveys Jerusalem and sighs: “Then I said, ‘These are only the poor; they are foolish, for they do not know the way of the LORD, the judgments of their God.’ ” (Jeremiah 5:4) What Scripture Calls “Foolish” • Ignorance of God’s ways (Jeremiah 5:4) • Denial of God’s existence (Psalm 14:1) • Despising wisdom and discipline (Proverbs 1:7) • Trusting in self rather than the Lord (Proverbs 28:26) Roots of the Foolishness in Jeremiah’s Day • Neglect of God’s Word and commands • Hard hearts that refused correction • Superficial religion without true obedience • Social influence pulling the people toward sin rather than truth Steps to Avoid Such Foolishness Today 1. Know the Way of the Lord • Immerse yourself daily in Scripture. “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Memorize and meditate (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 119:11). 2. Submit to His Judgments • Let God’s standards, not culture, define right and wrong. • Act on what you read. “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) 3. Cultivate the Fear of the Lord • “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” (Proverbs 1:7) • Reverence produces careful living (Proverbs 14:16). 4. Seek Wisdom Earnestly • Ask God for it (James 1:5). • “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” (Proverbs 2:6) • Organize life around His instruction, like the wise builder (Matthew 7:24). 5. Stay Teachable • Welcome counsel and correction (Proverbs 12:1). • Guard against pride that resists change. 6. Walk in Community • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds… encourage one another.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Wise companions reinforce wise choices; foolish companions erode them (Proverbs 13:20). 7. Maintain Constant Communion with Christ • “If you remain in Me and My words remain in you…” (John 15:7) • Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Living It Out • Set a realistic, daily Bible-reading plan and stick to it. • Keep a journal of insights and specific obediences. • Schedule regular fellowship where Scripture is opened and applied. • Evaluate influences—media, friendships, habits—and replace any that dull spiritual sensitivity. • Ask the Holy Spirit each morning to expose blind spots and strengthen resolve to obey. Conclusion Foolishness in Jeremiah’s time sprang from ignorance and disregard of God’s ways. By anchoring ourselves in Scripture, embracing reverent obedience, cultivating teachability, and walking closely with Christ and His people, we trade folly for godly wisdom and stand secure, whatever our generation may choose. |
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