What do you value most? ∙∙

What do you value most? ∙∙

Let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. – Jeremiah 9:24

Jeremiah 9:23-24

23 Thus says the LORD, “Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches.
24 but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,” declares the LORD.

The Trap of Tribalism

Humans are inherently tribal. We find meaning and security in belonging to a group, whether it’s based on ideology, religion, culture, ethnicity, or shared convictions. This tribal instinct provides a sense of belonging and safety, but it also blinds us.

Tribalism often leads to uncritical loyalty. In sports, our team is always right, and the other team is always wrong. In families, we defend our loved ones even when they are in the wrong. In politics, tribalism has evolved into identity politics, where groups form exclusive alliances based on race, religion, gender, or other factors.

Identity politics can inspire pride in one’s group, creating a sense of belonging and uniqueness. Yet, it often fuels self-interest that overshadows others, leading to division and disregard. It tends to foster unwavering, blind loyalty to one’s group, often at the expense of open-mindedness, empathy, and a genuine willingness to listen and understand differing perspectives.

This kind of loyalty can create an “us versus them” mentality, where the values, needs, and experiences of those outside the group are devalued or dismissed. Over time, this narrow focus on one’s own group can erode the ability to engage in thoughtful dialogue, show compassion, or consider alternative viewpoints. This can spark intense contempt, sometimes growing into outright hatred.

At its core, tribalism feeds our desire to feel good about ourselves and our “tribe.” It encourages boasting about our side while dismissing others. But as Jeremiah reminds us, this is a shallow and misplaced source of pride.

Raising the Bar

Our standards are often shaped by social customs or community consensus, but they fall short of what the Father desires for us. Jeremiah raises the bar, calling us to a higher standard: “Let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth” (Jeremiah 9:24).

True identity and satisfaction come from knowing and understanding the Father. When we align ourselves with His character, His steadfast love, justice, and righteousness—it transforms us. We begin to take on His values and practice His ways.

The Illusion of Control

Wisdom, power, and wealth often give us the illusion of control, but this is only an illusion. As Stanley notes: Intelligence, power, and riches all give human beings the illusion of being in control, but the illusion always ends. When we put our confidence in God alone, however, we find something worth our boasting.

Boasting in the Lord is not about arrogance; it’s about recognizing the source of true value and purpose. It’s about finding our identity in Him rather than in the transitory and superficial standards of this world.

REFLECT & PRAY

So much of our lives are consumed by misplaced values and loyalties. We boast in things that have no lasting value—our achievements, possessions, or affiliations. But the Father offers a more excellent way: to know Him, to emulate His character, and to align our lives with His eternal values.

Father, help me to know You deeply and to boast only in You. Teach me to emulate Your steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in my life. May my values and loyalties reflect Your heart, and may I find my identity and satisfaction in You alone.

INSIGHT

Boasting in What Truly Matters

Jeremiah 9:24 offers a profound and timeless truth: “Let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth.”

Constable explains that Jeremiah 9:24 serves as a concise summary of Israel’s faith at its highest. True religion is about acknowledging God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life and allowing Him to cultivate His defining qualities—steadfast love, justice, and righteousness—in the lives of His people.

The Human Desire to Boast

Boasting is a natural part of human nature. We all desire to take pride in something, whether it’s our achievements, possessions, or affiliations. Jeremiah redirects this impulse, saying that if we must boast, let it be about something truly meaningful: knowing the Father.

To know the Father is to recognize what He values most—lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness. These are not abstract ideals but the very essence of His character.

The Depth of Hesed

The Hebrew word hesed, often translated as “lovingkindness, steadfast love, or unfailing devotion,” captures the depth of God’s love. It conveys loyalty, mercy, and compassionate faithfulness.

If you have experienced the Father’s hesed—His unwavering love and mercy—then boast in that. Let your pride be rooted in the knowledge of His heart and His ways.

As Wiersbe notes: “No amount of education, power, or wealth—three things the world today depends on and boasts about—can guarantee the blessing of God. God doesn’t delight in a nation’s learning, political influence, armies, or gross national product. He delights in a people who practice kindness, justice, and righteousness because they know and fear the Lord.”

Knowing the Father’s Heart

Being a child of the King does not automatically grant us spiritual understanding, intimacy, or the Father’s blessing. These come from truly knowing His heart and understanding His ways.

When we know the Father, we can choose to reflect His character. We can commit to being loyal and devoted to Him, allowing intimacy to flow from that commitment. This is not about mere religious observance but about a transformative relationship that shapes our values and actions.

What Delights the Father?

The Father delights in His children when they reflect His character. By practicing kindness, we show His mercy. By upholding justice, we mirror His fairness. When we live righteously, we honor His holiness.

Boasting in the knowledge of the Father is not about arrogance but about celebrating the privilege of knowing Him and being transformed by His love. It is about aligning our lives with His values and bringing His light into the world.

A Call to Action

Let your life be a reflection of the Father’s heart. Boast not in your own achievements but in the privilege of knowing Him. Seek to embody His steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in all you do, for this is what truly delights Him.

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© Dr. H 2025