21 For the shepherds are stupid and do not inquire of the Lord; therefore they have not prospered, Jeremiah 10:21
Disclaimer: I am sure that this verse sounds more epic in it’s original language. Also, I am taking it out of context. My hermeneutic professor would scold me with her repeated phrase of choice; “context defines meaning”.
With this said, the Bible calls someone stupid. Not “he lacks wisdom” (which is Biblical for “stupid as the day is long”) or another less harsh term but STUPID. Many “religious” folk might think that this term would refer to those pesky sinners or pharisees, but it doesn’t. In this context, Jeremiah is speaking of those who fail to “inquire” of the Lord which results in being unsuccessful.
So here is the point. When an event, whether good or bad, happens, where do you run? The wise run to God to gain wisdom and insight, while the stupid run away from God to . . .let’s say Facebook or that friend who gossips harshly. In many cases, conflict redeems our devotion and drives us closer to Christ, but we have to let it do so.
Today, what are you hiding from God? What do you need to inquire about? Don’t be stupid, he already knows anyway. To keep from him is to not prosper in this life or the next. Lean into your Father of wisdom.
Matt simon blog 