Spiritual Practices: Bible Study
Overview
In this passage, Jeremiah compares and contrasts those who trust in people (verses 5-6) with those who trust in the Lord (verses 7-8). It is often easier for us to place our trust in people that we can see rather than in God who we cannot. As you explore this passage, think about where you place your trust and how it is working out for you.
Practice
Read verses 5-6 and reflect on what Jeremiah says about those who place in trust in people. Consider the following questions.
Now read verses 7-8 and reflect on what Jeremiah says about those who place their trust in God. Consider the following questions.
Overview
In this passage, Jeremiah compares and contrasts those who trust in people (verses 5-6) with those who trust in the Lord (verses 7-8). It is often easier for us to place our trust in people that we can see rather than in God who we cannot. As you explore this passage, think about where you place your trust and how it is working out for you.
Practice
Read verses 5-6 and reflect on what Jeremiah says about those who place in trust in people. Consider the following questions.
- What was a time you every placed your trust in people rather than God?
- How did it work out for you?
- Can you see your experience reflected in Jeremiah’s imagery?
Now read verses 7-8 and reflect on what Jeremiah says about those who place their trust in God. Consider the following questions.
- Can you think of a time that you chose to trust in God rather than in people?
- How did it work out?
- Is there a situation in your life now where you are trusting in people rather than in God?
- What is keeping you from trusting God rather than people?
- Are there any thoughts or perspectives that you might need to change so that you can start trusting God more?
Spiritual Practices: Breath Prayer
Overview
In the first part of this passage Jeremiah contrasts those who trust in people with those who trust in God. In the last part of the passage, he talks about the problems of even trusting our own hearts. His point is that life tends to go much better when we trust God above all else. This is something we sometimes have a hard time doing, but it starts with declaring our intent. That is what this breath prayer is about.
Prayer
Abba Father, I place my trust in you
Overview
In the first part of this passage Jeremiah contrasts those who trust in people with those who trust in God. In the last part of the passage, he talks about the problems of even trusting our own hearts. His point is that life tends to go much better when we trust God above all else. This is something we sometimes have a hard time doing, but it starts with declaring our intent. That is what this breath prayer is about.
Prayer
Abba Father, I place my trust in you
Exploring the Text: Finding guidance
Have you ever had to make a life changing decision? Perhaps it was something like, where to go to college, who to marry, where to live, or what financial investments to make. We have all been faced with these types of conundrums.
Well meaning friends and family usually say “Just follow your heart.” However, this verse tells us that our hearts are deceitful. Because of the fall of mankind, our hearts now lean toward sinful nature. Hearts have to be changed in order to follow Christ.
The big question here is “How do we make those decisions?” The answer is in verse 7. “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord.” In order to make the right decision, trust the Lord to give you the answer. Pray about the situation, fast, and seek His counsel by reading the Word of God. If your decision does not align with God’s Word, then it is the wrong decision.
Ask God for wisdom. He will give it to you (James 1:5). You can also seek the counsel of other Godly people. Proverbs 24:6 says that in a multitude of counselors there is safety.
In conclusion, lean on the Lord for He will never lead you astray.
Rick Heinrich
Have you ever had to make a life changing decision? Perhaps it was something like, where to go to college, who to marry, where to live, or what financial investments to make. We have all been faced with these types of conundrums.
Well meaning friends and family usually say “Just follow your heart.” However, this verse tells us that our hearts are deceitful. Because of the fall of mankind, our hearts now lean toward sinful nature. Hearts have to be changed in order to follow Christ.
The big question here is “How do we make those decisions?” The answer is in verse 7. “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord.” In order to make the right decision, trust the Lord to give you the answer. Pray about the situation, fast, and seek His counsel by reading the Word of God. If your decision does not align with God’s Word, then it is the wrong decision.
Ask God for wisdom. He will give it to you (James 1:5). You can also seek the counsel of other Godly people. Proverbs 24:6 says that in a multitude of counselors there is safety.
In conclusion, lean on the Lord for He will never lead you astray.
Rick Heinrich