"is There No Balm Or Leadership In Gilead?"

SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES

(Jeremiah 8:20-22) "[20] The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved." [21] "For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me" [22] "Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?"

(Jeremiah 46:11) "Go up into Gilead, and take balm, O virgin, the daughter of Egypt: in vain shalt thou use many medicines; for thou shalt not be cured."

PREFACE SUMMARY

"Is there no balm in Gilead?" The term "balm" was used to refer to a healing ointment or salve, and the region of Gilead was known for producing medicinal plants and herbs. Over time, this phrase has been used in various contexts to express the idea of searching for a solution or cure to a problem. Many people throughout history have asked this critical question, which speaks to a universal longing for healing and hope.

The eighth chapter of Jeremiah and the forty-sixth chapter of the same book speaks of a coming disaster on God's people. These chapters show that the people missed their chance for repentance and will soon face judgment from a strong, advancing army that will leave them utterly devastated. God's army against them will be powerful, relentless, and ruthless. It will destroy the land, laying waste to everything in its path and leaving the people with nothing.

(Jeremiah 8:20-22) describes people's sins and failure to listen to God's word. The chapter reveals that their leaders have misled them, and they have not repented despite repeated warnings from God's prophet. As a result, God will send a nation from the north to punish them. The invading army will be swift and ruthless, leaving the land desolate. The people will be left to mourn their losses and suffer the consequences of their sins.

(Jeremiah 46:11) speaks of a similar fate for Egypt. The chapter describes an impending invasion by Babylon, which will conquer the land and take its people captive. Despite their military might, the Egyptians will not match the Babylonian army, which will sweep through the land like a flood. The chapter warns that Egypt's leaders will be powerless to stop the invasion, and the people will suffer greatly.

In both chapters of the text, the people are warned about an impending disaster looming over them. Despite the warnings, they refuse to listen and instead turn away from God. Over time, their hearts become hardened, and their actions lead them to sinful behavior. As a result of their disobedience, God decides to allow them to suffer the consequences of their actions.

(Jeremiah 8:20-22) mentions that an invading army will arrive in Judah when the harvest has already been gathered. This implies that there will be no grapes on the vine or figs on the trees, which are signs of prosperity and abundance. This situation clearly indicates that the people of Judah will face a dire situation they cannot escape.

The text further explains that there will be no remedy for the coming judgment upon Judah. This means that the invading army will be too powerful for the people to fight against, and there will be no escape from the impending doom. The people will have to face the consequences of their actions, and disobedience towards God will lead them towards a devastating end.

Saints, when I began to meditate on the references concerning the balm of Gilead, I realized that this phrase also speaks to the importance of effective leadership in the present-day church community. It stresses the need for individuals to step forward and take charge, providing guidance and direction to those around them. The phrase encourages a sense of urgency, encouraging people to be accountable in their leadership efforts.

As I meditate on this idea, I drift toward the numerous churches that have suffered through painful church splits, leaving pastors bewildered and questioning where they may have gone wrong. It is a tragic reality that many churches have faced, often due to ineffective leadership.

When leaders are not equipped or motivated to provide guidance and direction to their congregations, the results can be disastrous. Confusion, disorganization, and a lack of direction can lead to discontentment and division among church members.

It is time for church leaders to recognize their crucial role in building a healthy and thriving church community. Beloved, the bottom line to this message is that we need leaders who genuinely love God and his people, for leaders who are committed to serving them can make all the difference in their lives, church, and community.

True spirit-filled leaders must be hands-on in their approach, stepping up to provide clear and concise guidance that aligns with the church's vision and mission. By doing so, they can help prevent the shattering of their congregation and instead create a united and purposeful community of believers.