I’ve always been struck by the profound responsibility that comes with leadership, particularly in the church. Reading through Jeremiah 22-23, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of God’s words directed at the leaders of Israel. As a leader, these passages serve as a sobering reminder that shepherding God’s people is not about serving ourselves but about being faithful stewards of His truth.

In Jeremiah 23:1-2, God condemns the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of His pasture. This rebuke is not limited to the kings but extends to the religious leaders as well. Those who are supposed to guide and protect God’s people are instead leading them astray, prioritizing their own interests over the well-being of the flock. The failure of these leaders to listen to God and to faithfully communicate His message is a betrayal of their calling.

As a preacher, this strikes a deep chord within me. The role of a preacher, much like the prophets of old, is to declare God’s word to His people. But how can we do that if we do not first listen to what He has to say? Jeremiah 23:16-22 makes it clear that those who claim to speak for God must be faithful to His words, not their own ideas or desires. This is not just a call to those who stand in the pulpit, but to anyone in a position of spiritual leadership—whether you’re leading a church, a small group, or your own family.

It’s easy to let our own agendas, insecurities, or even good intentions cloud our ability to hear from God. But as leaders, we must be committed to both truth and transparency. We must be willing to speak God’s truth, even when it’s difficult, and to do so with integrity and humility.

This is a commitment I continue to make in my own ministry, and it’s one I challenge all leaders to take seriously. We must shepherd God’s people with care, ensuring that we are faithful to His word and not leading others astray by our own neglect or self-interest. Let’s be leaders who listen, who seek God’s guidance, and who are faithful to the task we’ve been given.