What actions in Jeremiah 22:15 reflect a life pleasing to God?

Setting the Scene

Jeremiah confronts King Jehoiakim by recalling the example of his godly father, King Josiah. In one short verse, God highlights the behavior that made Josiah’s reign “well.”

---

Key Action Words in the Verse

“Did not your father eat and drink and do justice and righteousness? Then it was well with him.” (Jeremiah 22:15)

---

Actions That Please God

• Enjoying God’s provisions (“eat and drink”) without greed or oppression

• Practicing justice—treating people impartially, defending the vulnerable

• Living out righteousness—personal integrity and obedience to God’s standards

---

What These Actions Look Like Everyday

• Contentment: receiving daily blessings gratefully rather than exploiting others to gain more (1 Timothy 6:6–8)

• Fair dealings: paying fair wages, keeping promises, refusing bribes (Leviticus 19:13, Proverbs 11:1)

• Advocacy: speaking up for the widow, orphan, and immigrant (Isaiah 1:17, James 1:27)

• Personal holiness: aligning words, thoughts, and deeds with God’s commands (Psalm 15)

---

Why These Actions Please God

• They mirror His own character—“The LORD is righteous; He loves righteous deeds” (Psalm 11:7).

• They show love for neighbor, fulfilling the heart of the Law (Matthew 22:39–40).

• They invite God’s favor and stability—“Then it was well with him” (Jeremiah 22:15b; see also Proverbs 21:21).

---

Putting It into Practice Today

• Cultivate gratitude at every meal; pause to thank God for His daily bread.

• Review financial and relational decisions through the lens of justice—ask if anyone is being short-changed or ignored.

• Schedule regular generosity: set aside time and resources to aid those in need.

• Pursue consistent, quiet obedience even when no one is watching; righteousness is lived in both public and private.