GOOD FOR NOTHING

Read Jer.13:1-11. 

Good for nothing—not a flattering description to give someone.  Yet, it was the accurate assessment of God concerning Judah.  

It was illustrated by an object lesson—a visual aid—Jeremiah used to communicate the wicked ways of his people.  God told Jeremiah to buy a sash and wear it.  This was a garment, much like underwear worn against the skin, stretching from the waist to the thigh.  Being made of linen meant it was rather expensive—not cheap material.  He was not to wash it, so you can imagine how underwear might get a bit nasty. After a time, the prophet was told to take the garment and bury it under a rock beside the Euphrates River which bordered Babylon. Later, he was commanded to make the seven hundred mile round trip and recover the garment, which was now ruined—good for nothing.

The message was plain.  God valued the Jews.  He brought them close to Him.  They might have been a people “for renown, for praise, and for glory; but they would not hear.”  Failing to listen to God’s commands and cling to Him, Israel and Judah would be cast away as worthless, soiled underwear.  Babylon’s armies would cross the Euphrates and conquer Jerusalem.

There are few things more tragic than wasted potential.  We hear the sad stories of a gifted athlete who might have been a champion, but their lack of discipline kept them from attaining the crown.  Instead they chose the party scene—drugs and drunkenness, wine and women—the nightlife when they ought to have been sleeping.  What might have been would never be.  They became washed up, wasted, worthless to the team.

I have seen this among church members and leaders.  I have witnessed the giftedness of a singer, teacher, deacon or preacher, walking close to God and being blessed and blessing others.  Then they begin to drift.  They no longer are as passionate for God.  They bury their talent under worldly concerns and amusements.  Their soul becomes soiled and their witness in tatters.

Is God speaking to you today?  Will you hear and heed the message?  

Good for nothing—don’t let that be your epitaph.