“Thus saith Jehovah: Cursed is the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from Jehovah. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh, but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in Jehovah, and whose trust Jehovah is.” (Jeremiah 17:5-7, American Standard Version)
Our verse today captures a deep theological principle integral to the Judeo-Christian tradition. This passage speaks of the supreme value of placing one’s unwavering trust in the Lord, promising a state of blessedness and spiritual security to those who do so.
In the broader literary context of Jeremiah 17, the prophet Jeremiah delineates a stark contrast between the destinies of those who trust in human strength and those who place their confidence in divine providence. Verses 5 and 6 depict the cursed state of individuals who rely on human capabilities and turn their hearts away from the Lord, likening them to desolate shrubs in a parched land. Conversely, verse 7 heralds a shift, pronouncing divine favour upon those who place their trust in the Lord.
To trust in God signifies more than a mere cognitive acknowledgment of God’s existence; it embodies an active, living faith that permeates every facet of one’s life. This trust is founded upon a significantly deep personal relationship with God, characterised by an unwavering reliance on His wisdom, guidance, and providential care. The individual who places their trust in the Lord is blessed, not only in times of trial but also in moments of prosperity, exhibiting an unshakeable confidence in God.
The phrase “whose trust Jehovah is” further elucidates this concept, supporting an identity and existence deeply rooted in God. We should not only place our trust in the Lord but also derive our very being and sense of security from Him. Such trust transforms and elevates us, bringing our desires and choices in line with those of God. This principle is further echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus’ teachings frequently emphasise the importance of trust and reliance on God. In the Sermon on the Mount, for instance, Jesus blesses those who are “poor in spirit” and “pure in heart,” demonstrating the inner disposition of trust and humility before God. (Read Matthew 5:3-8) Jesus assures His followers of God’s providential care, exhorting them not to be anxious about their lives but to seek first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:25-34).
Our verse today encourages us to cultivate a deep, abiding faith, ensuring that our trust is firmly anchored in Jehovah God. In doing so, we bring ourselves in accord with divine favour and experience the true peace and security that emanates from a life steadfastly rooted in God.
