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BROKEN CISTERNS

Image: Urgentmission.org


"For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water" - Jeremiah 2:13 (KJV)

Central to human desire is the quest for fulfillment and satisfaction. A void exists in every heart, yearning to be filled daily. Every human pursuit aims to achieve this ultimate feat, but this relentless quest for stability and respite also harbors dangers. In seeking breakthroughs by any means, some have derailed their destinies and futures, while others have incurred immense sorrow. The devil holds millions of ignorant souls captive, pledged to him in exchange for worldly goods. As the Bible asks, "What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul? What will he give in exchange for eternity?" (Mark 8:36-37)

In our anchor text, Israel has once again forsaken the Lord, as is their custom. They quickly forget the One who parted the Red Sea, made them walk on dry ground, and performed countless miracles. In the wilderness, they sought God in times of austerity, but now, amidst plenty, they disregard Him. This scenario is not unique to the Israelites. Often, people seek God during hardships, attending congregational meetings and praying fervently, but as soon as their situation improves, their commitment wanes, and fervor cools. These individuals prioritize divine presents over divine presence, seeking God for gifts rather than fellowship. At best, they are believing parasites, expecting God to dispense blessings like a vending machine.

Note that God doesn't need us to be God; He desires a blossoming love relationship with His creatures. He is committed to our welfare, supplying all our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). However, this shouldn't be the basis of our commitment. Jesus spoke of true riches, surpassing worldly wealth. When we prioritize material riches, we prove ourselves unready for the true riches. Some believers, impatient for God's answers, seek quick fixes and alternatives, regardless of their nature or source.

Jesus invites all who thirst to come to Him for true satisfaction (John 7:37). Isaiah condemned spending resources on things that don't satisfy (Isaiah 55:2). Today's materialistic society pressures people to appear successful, no matter the means. These quick fixes, however, are fleeting and costly, potentially even costing one's soul. They are mere band-aids, not healing the real wound. Only Jesus can meet the deepest need in every heart. Until we meet our tender Shepherd, we'll continue seeking broken cisterns.

The Scriptures offer examples of those who waited on God and were rewarded: Hannah, Jehoiachin, Mephibosheth, and Joseph, among others. These heroes demonstrate that God still lifts destinies and will continue to do so. All are invited to the green pastures and still waters, where the gracious Shepherd awaits. His arms are wide open to those who pant after the water brooks, seeking His marvelous help in absolute surrender.
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