To Live and Practice Our Faith

Chapelle Royale Versailles Wikimedia Commons

Chapelle Royale Versailles
Wikimedia Commons

Jeremiah gives a beautiful description of how to live and practice our faith: Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches; but let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practice steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth; for in these things I delight, says the LORD.” (Jeremiah 9:23-24)

Many say these two verses of Jeremiah define the basis of our faith and religion — steadfast love of God and neighbor, the proper exercise of justice, and righteousness.  For the LORD blesses those “who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times” (Psalms 106:3), for the LORD “loves righteousness and justice” (Psalms 33:5) and “hate[s] wickedness” (Psalms 45:7).

Wise men may glory in their wisdom, but true wisdom resides in fear of the LORD, for “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who practice it” (Psalms 111:10).

Mighty men cannot prevail over the might of LORD, for “A king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength. The war horse is a vain hope for victory, and by its great might it cannot save.” (Psalms 33:16,17).

Rich men may glory in their riches, but “Truly no man can ransom himself, or give to God the price of his life, for the ransom of his life is costly, and can never suffice, that he should continue to live on for ever, and never see the Pit.” (Psalms 49:7-9).

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1 Response to To Live and Practice Our Faith

  1. Colleen says:

    Beautiful. I love Jeremiah (and the Psalms, too).
    “that he understands and know me…” – that is where I am right now, focusing on my personal relationship with Jesus.

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