Jeremiah 9:24

But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord.

Jeremiah 9:24 (KJV)

Context

Jeremiah prophesied to the people of Judah during a time of deep moral and spiritual decline. The nation had turned away from God, embracing idolatry and wickedness. In this verse, God calls His people to stop boasting in human wisdom, strength, or riches, and instead to glory in the one thing that truly matters: knowing Him.

Meaning

The verse begins with an exhortation: “let him that glorieth glory in this.” The word “glory” here means to rejoice or boast. The proper basis for all boasting is not in human achievement but in understanding and knowing God. This knowledge is not merely intellectual; it is personal and intimate, involving a relationship with Him and an experience of His character and ways.

The verse then describes three key attributes of God that He exercises in the earth. Lovingkindness refers to God’s steadfast love, mercy, and faithfulness toward His people. Judgment speaks of His justice and fairness; He holds people accountable for their actions, and His justice will ultimately prevail. Righteousness is God’s perfect moral character; He always acts in accordance with what is right and just, standing in stark contrast to the unrighteousness of the people.

The verse concludes with God’s own declaration: “for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.” God takes pleasure in demonstrating lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness. These are not passive qualities but active expressions of His character in the world. His delight in these things reveals His heart and His desire for His people to reflect them in their own lives.

Biblical connections

The New Testament quotes this verse in 1 Corinthians 1:31 and 2 Corinthians 10:17 to teach that all boasting should be in the Lord alone, not in human accomplishments. This reinforces the enduring principle that true wisdom and glory are found in knowing God, not in human pride.

Application

This verse calls us to examine what we boast in. Do we take more pride in our abilities, possessions, or achievements than in our relationship with God? True glory is found in understanding and knowing the Lord—experiencing His lovingkindness, trusting His judgment, and living in His righteousness. As we grow in this knowledge, our lives should increasingly reflect these same attributes, aligning our affections with God’s and delighting in what He delights in.

Reflection

Knowing God is not a distant or abstract concept; it is a personal, covenantal relationship with the LORD, the God who keeps His promises. This knowledge transforms us, drawing us into a life that mirrors His character. May our boasting be in Him alone, and may our hearts find their greatest joy in the God who delights in lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness.