Unfortunately, over the last several years there have been several well-known preachers who have had catastrophic moral failures. This is not unique to our own time. When I was growing up, there were several famous televangelists who had similar problems. The fact is, because we are sinful people, this sin often affects the leaders of God’s people, and if they do not take careful measures to protect their integrity, they can become a blight on God’s people rather than a blessing.

As we move into Lamentations 4 this week, we will see how Jerusalem’s priests and prophets are largely responsible for leading the people into greater forms of wickedness. As Jeremiah looks around at the devastation that God has allowed to take place in Jerusalem, he wants to know who is responsible for this happening? Regrettably, those who should have led the people of God in righteousness have instead become leaders in sin. When the prophets and priests become corrupt, how does a person discern truth?

Join me as we observe Jeremiah’s fourth lament and reflect on the importance of integrity in godly leaders.