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Lamentations 4 (ESV)

11 The Lord gave full vent to his wrath;
he poured out his hot anger,
and he kindled a fire in Zion
that consumed its foundations.

12 The kings of the earth did not believe,
nor any of the inhabitants of the world,
that foe or enemy could enter
the gates of Jerusalem.

13 This was for the sins of her prophets
and the iniquities of her priests,
who shed in the midst of her
the blood of the righteous.

14 They wandered, blind, through the streets;
they were so defiled with blood
that no one was able to touch
their garments.

15 “Away! Unclean!” people cried at them.
“Away! Away! Do not touch!”
So they became fugitives and wanderers;
people said among the nations,
“They shall stay with us no longer.”

16 The Lord himself has scattered them;
he will regard them no more;
no honor was shown to the priests,
no favor to the elders.

 

REFLECTION:

This chapter compares the situation of Jerusalem before and after the attack, and writes that because of the sins of the people, the prosperity and honour of Jerusalem have been destroyed. This chapter warns us that the “good life” that looks like gold will make us lose vigilance, lead to spiritual decline, and ultimately be severely judged by God for sinking into sins. Jeremiah specifically pointed out that the sins committed by the kings, prophets, and priests as leaders are greater. They are in a leadership position of the country, who should godly perform the duties entrusted by God, but rather they do evil and ungodly things, become bad examples for the people, and ultimately lead to the fall of Jerusalem and the demise of the country. Today, each of us has more or less the role of leader in the family, church, and society. In this role, we should set an example of fearing God, live out a beautiful testimony, and influence the people around us. So that they will not be bound and enslaved by the power of sin in the so-called good life of peace and prosperity, and lead them to God.

 

PRAYER:

Pray for God to make you understand your responsibilities in your family, church, and society, so that you can actively and bravely exert your influence, participate in the great commission of guiding people to God with all your heart, and strive to use your beautiful life to witness and preach the gospel of God.