What actions can we take to avoid the fate described in Jeremiah 25:36? The warning in Jeremiah 25:36 “A sound—the cry of the shepherds, the wailing of the leaders of the flock—for the LORD is destroying their pasture.” Why judgment fell on these shepherds • Persistent refusal to heed God’s word (Jeremiah 25:4–7) • Idolatry and trust in human power (Jeremiah 17:5; 25:6) • Injustice toward the flock (Jeremiah 22:13–17) • Pride that rejected correction (Proverbs 15:10) Actions that keep us from the same fate • Receive and obey Scripture wholeheartedly – “Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” (Jeremiah 3:15) – “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Luke 11:28) • Practice swift, humble repentance – “If My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways…” (2 Chronicles 7:14) – “Cleanse your hands, you sinners… Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” (James 4:8–10) • Shepherd with Christlike integrity – “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you… not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” (1 Peter 5:2–3) – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” (John 10:11) • Pursue justice, mercy, and humility in all relationships – “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8) – “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) • Stay accountable within Christ’s body – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch over your souls as those who must give an account.” (Hebrews 13:17) – “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) • Guard against idols and worldly compromise – “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) – “Do not love the world or anything in the world.” (1 John 2:15) • Persevere in prayerful dependence on the Lord – “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) Living out these commitments • Daily time in the Word and self-examination • Quick confession when the Spirit convicts • Serving others sacrificially rather than seeking status • Welcoming correction from trusted believers • Regular corporate worship that keeps Christ central By embracing these practices, we cultivate hearts and communities that honor the Lord, ensuring our “pastures” flourish instead of falling under the judgment that overtook the unfaithful shepherds of Jeremiah’s day. |
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