SPIRITUAL GEMS: Week of August 3-9, 2026, JEREMIAH 18 and 19, Answers.

SPIRITUAL GEMS: August 3-9, 2026, JEREMIAH 22, 23, Answers

Let's look for hidden gems (10 mins.)

Jeremiah 23:33. What is “the burden of Jehovah”? (w07 3/15 11 par. 1).

“The burden of Jehovah” referred to the messages of judgment that Jeremiah proclaimed against Judah. ​​However, Jeremiah 23:33 also reveals that when the people or their leaders asked, “What is the burden of Jehovah?” Jeremiah was to answer them on God’s behalf: “You are the burden! And I will certainly abandon you.” So, for the rebellious people, the divine warnings were an annoying burden to hear; but, in reality, the true burden for Jehovah was the people themselves, because of their rebellious and unfaithful conduct.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

“Jehovah’s burden” was, first and foremost, the severe judgments Jehovah announced through Jeremiah against Jerusalem, a message that was heavy for those who heard it. However, the account itself shows that the real burden was the rebellious and apathetic people who mocked the message and refused to believe and obey. That is why Jehovah said he would remove them from before him.

Today something similar is happening: Christendom finds the Bible's message about its destruction a burden, and Jehovah finds those who do not listen to his warning and reject his message a burden.

This verse teaches us that Jehovah’s warning message to Jeremiah became a burden to those who refused to listen or change their ways. It reminds us that today, too, there will be people who do not accept the Kingdom message, but we should not be discouraged. Our responsibility is to continue sharing it with love, patience, and the confidence that Jehovah can touch the hearts of those willing to listen.

This account makes us reflect on our own attitude. Sometimes, Bible counsel may correct us or ask us to make changes, and at first, this might seem difficult. However, instead of viewing it as a burden, we want to see it as an expression of Jehovah’s love. He gives us such counsel to protect us and help us make good decisions that will benefit us in the long run.

Another lesson we can learn is that Jehovah is very patient. Before executing his judgments, he had Jeremiah warn the people many times to give them an opportunity to repent. This encourages us to continue preaching with patience and hope. Even if some people do not listen today, we never know if later they will remember the message and decide to draw close to Jehovah.

In Jeremiah’s day, the expression “the burden of Jehovah” was used contemptuously by many priests, false prophets, and common people to refer to the message of judgment that Jehovah delivered through his prophet. They considered these warnings heavy, troublesome, and uncomfortable because they exposed their sins and demanded change.

Jehovah responded by giving a surprising twist to that expression. The real burden was not his message, but they themselves. Their rebellion, their lack of repentance, and their continued refusal to listen to God's voice were what was unbearable. That is why he declared: “You are the burden, and I will rid myself of you.”

As the March 15, 2007, Watchtower points out, the message of judgment was a burden to the people, but the disobedient people had become a burden to Jehovah. This shows that the problem was never with the divine message, but with the attitude of the hearts of those who refused to accept it.

Today, some people may also find the counsel or warnings in God’s Word uncomfortable because they clash with prevailing ideas or way of life. However, this account encourages us to ask ourselves whether we humbly accept Jehovah’s guidance or reject it when it corrects our thinking. When we receive Bible instruction with a willing heart, we show that we value Jehovah’s love and allow his Word to mold us for our good.

What spiritual gems have you found in this week's Bible reading?

Jeremiah 22:3. In this text, Jehovah commands us to act justly, to rescue the exploited, and not to mistreat the foreign resident, the orphan, or the widow. This teaches us that Jehovah cares deeply about how we treat others. Today, we imitate our God by being impartial, showing kindness to the disadvantaged, and upholding justice both in the congregation and in our daily lives.

Jeremiah 22:13. The text pronounces a woe against those who build their houses with injustice and make their neighbors work without paying them wages. It is a very clear principle regarding honesty in the workplace. If we have brothers or sisters or other dependents at work, we must be fair, punctual, and generous with their pay. Honesty in business glorifies the name of Jehovah.

Jeremiah 22:15, 16. The passage says that King Josiah championed the cause of the afflicted and the poor, and adds: “Isn’t that what it means to know me?” declares Jehovah. What a revealing definition! Accurate Bible knowledge is not just about accumulating facts in our minds, but about reflecting Jehovah’s personality by treating those around us with love, mercy, and justice.

Jeremiah 22:21. In this text, Jehovah reminded his people: “I spoke to you during your time of security, but you said, ‘I will not obey.’” This reminds us that sometimes, when everything is going well for us financially or personally, we can let our guard down and stop paying attention to spiritual counsel.

Jeremiah 22:21. It reminds us of the trap of not listening in times of prosperity. This pearl teaches us that we must maintain humility and obedience to Jehovah at all times, not only when we are going through difficulties.

Jeremiah 22:24. It teaches us that Jehovah’s approval is not unconditional. Jehovah said that even if Coniah were the signet ring on his right hand, he would tear it off because of his disobedience. This reminds us that no privilege of service, not even years spent in the truth, gives us immunity from sin. To retain Jehovah’s favor, we must remain faithful and obedient day after day.

Jeremiah 23:1, 2. It teaches us the importance of tenderly caring for Jehovah's sheep. It strongly condemns the shepherds who scattered and caused the sheep of God's flock to flee.

Jeremiah 23:1, 2. This gem contains a valuable lesson for the elders of the congregation. The sheep belong to Jehovah, so they must be treated with immense tenderness, patience, and love, strengthening the congregation rather than discouraging it.

Jeremiah 23:3, 4. It reminds us of the promise of good shepherds in the congregation. Jehovah promised to appoint shepherds who would truly feed his sheep so that they would no longer be afraid or terrified.

Jeremiah 23:3, 4. We are very grateful to Jehovah for the self-sacrificing elders we have in the Christian congregation today. They provide us with spiritual refuge, care for us, and help us feel secure in this anxious world.

Jeremiah 23:5, 6. The text prophesies the rise of a righteous branch for David, a king who will reign with wisdom and justice. This prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Knowing that the Kingdom of God is in the hands of a truly just and compassionate King gives us immense peace and motivates us to preach enthusiastically about His reign.

Jeremiah 23:16. It teaches us to be selective about what we listen to. Jehovah warns: “Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you. They speak visions that come from their own hearts, not from the mouth of Jehovah.”

Jeremiah 23:16. It reminds us that the world today is full of human philosophies and apostate misinformation. This gem encourages us to filter everything we read or hear, ensuring that it is firmly based on the Bible and God's order.

Jeremiah 23:21, 22. It reminds us that true preaching produces real change. Jehovah explains that if the false prophets had been in his inner circle, they would have turned the people away from their wicked ways.

Jeremiah 23:21, 22. It teaches us that when we preach faithfully based on Scripture, the message has the power to transform lives. This motivates us not to dilute the biblical message and to always teach using God's Word.

Jeremiah 23:23, 24. It teaches us that no one can hide from Jehovah. The text asks: “Am I a God only near and not also a God far away? Can anyone hide in a secret place where I cannot see him?” This is an awe-inspiring truth. Jehovah is aware of everything.

Jeremiah 23:23, 24. This text comforts us because Jehovah sees our suffering, even that which no one else can notice. But it also serves as a deterrent to prevent us from committing sins in secret.

Jeremiah 23:28. It shows us the difference between divine truth and chaff. Jehovah contrasts false prophecies with his word by asking: “What does chaff have to do with wheat?”

Jeremiah 23:28. It reminds us that worldly ideas are like chaff: empty and without substance. In contrast, the Word of God is like wheat: substantial, nourishing, and capable of giving spiritual life. Therefore, we must value the spiritual wheat we receive through personal study and fellowship.

Jeremiah 23:29. In this text Jehovah says: “Is not my word like a fire and like a forging hammer that breaks the rock in pieces?” The Bible has the power to consume falsehood and break the destructive attitudes of hardened hearts.

Jeremiah 23:29. It reminds us of the transformative power of God's Word. This gem gives us confidence to use the Bible directly when teaching others in preaching.

Jeremiah 23:30, 31. He teaches us to avoid plagiarism and spiritual distortion. Jehovah declares himself against prophets “who steal my words from one another” or who use their own language to say: “He declares.”

Jeremiah 23:30, 31. This text reminds us of the importance of being honest and accurate when teaching the truth. We must not invent explanations or present personal opinions as if they were biblical doctrines.

Jeremiah 23:36. It reminds us of the sacred respect due to Jehovah's message. The verse warns against the danger of perverting the words of the living God. Therefore, we must have deep respect and reverence for Bible truth.

Jeremiah 23:36. This pearl encourages us to study diligently to become skilled teachers who correctly handle the word of truth, without twisting its meaning to suit our personal conveniences.

Jeremiah 22:3. This text teaches us that Jehovah wants us to love justice and never participate in injustice, something all too common these days. There are people who hold positions of authority and use them to harm the defenseless.

Jeremiah 22:3. It reminds us that we should treat others as we would like to be treated. We can think that if an injustice were committed against our mother, our father, a son, a daughter, or any of our loved ones, we certainly wouldn't want that to happen to them. Therefore, we shouldn't harm the innocent either.

Jeremiah 22:13. This text reminds us that Jehovah detests those who take advantage of his workers by withholding their wages, or part of them, in an unjust, arbitrary, and dishonest manner.

Jeremiah 22:13. This text makes us reflect on the importance of acting honestly, whether we are doing a job, paying for it, or conducting business. That's why it's sometimes said that doing business with siblings can be difficult, not because they all act badly, but because some may take advantage of the trust and not act fairly.

Jeremiah 22:16. It shows us that, through Jeremiah, Jehovah condemned Jehoiakim for his selfishness and reminded him that his father had been generous to the workers and the poor, and had even defended them in court.

Jeremiah 22:16. It reminds us that today, too, there are people in positions of authority who choose to ignore those who suffer injustice. They ignore the victims and prefer to silence them. Jehovah disapproves of this attitude. Authorities have the responsibility to act justly and not simply assume that God will solve the problem without their involvement.

Jeremiah 22:19. It shows us that when a donkey died, they simply dragged it out of the city and threw its body away with the garbage. Using that image, Jehovah announced how Jehoiakim would end up: he would have an undignified burial, like that of a donkey. What a pitiful end!

Jeremiah 23:1. This text teaches us that the way in which spiritual shepherds, that is, the elders, treat the sheep of the congregation is very important to Jehovah, especially those who are going through difficulties or are more vulnerable.

Jeremiah 23:1. It shows us that the responsibility of caring for Jehovah's sheep is very serious, for those who shepherd them will have to give an account of how they care for them. It is not simply a matter of demanding obedience, but of remembering that they themselves will answer to Jehovah for their actions.

Jeremiah 23:2. This text highlights the importance that Jehovah's organization places on treating the sheep well. When a committee of elders is formed today to handle a case of serious sin, the objective is not to humiliate the person or make them feel worse, but to help them repent and, if possible, remain in the congregation.

Jeremiah 23:2. It reminds us that the Governing Body encourages elders to lovingly help those who have drifted away from the congregation.

Jeremiah 23:4. This promise found a remarkable fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Excellent Shepherd and Head of the Christian congregation. He demonstrated true compassion for those in his care and set the perfect example for all spiritual shepherds.

Jeremiah 23:4. It reminds us that today Jehovah continues to care for his flock through the faithful and discreet slave, the Governing Body, and the diligent elders. All of them strive to imitate Jesus’ spirit of self-giving and to spiritually feed the congregation.

Jeremiah 23:11. It reminds us that when some learn of serious wrongdoing by brothers who hold positions of responsibility in the congregation, they may be shocked and ask, “How can this happen among people who preach the Bible?” However, it is important to remember that being part of God’s people does not mean being perfect.

Jeremiah 23:11. It reminds us that anyone can make a serious mistake if they are not vigilant. This story encourages us to remain spiritually alert and not to judge hastily, for even in biblical times there were people in positions of responsibility who acted wrongly.

Jeremiah 22:3. This verse reminds us that Jehovah expects us to always do what is right, even when no one is watching. It is not enough to say that we are Christians; we must also demonstrate it by the way we treat others.

Jeremiah 22:3. It reminds us that if we are honest, fair, and kind at work, at school, or with our neighbors, we will be reflecting Jehovah's qualities and giving a good testimony of our faith.

Jeremiah 22:13. This verse teaches us that Jehovah does not approve of someone gaining advantages by harming others. Today, that could happen if someone deceives, lies, or fails to keep their promises to obtain money or some other benefit.

Jeremiah 22:13. It reminds us that although it may sometimes seem that acting honestly costs more, Jehovah highly values ​​our integrity and always blesses those who do what is right.

Jeremiah 22:15, 16. It is noteworthy that the Bible says that helping those in need was proof that Josiah truly knew Jehovah. This teaches us that knowing God involves not only learning from the Bible but also demonstrating love and concern for people.

Jeremiah 22:15, 16. It reminds us that, in the congregation, we can show love and interest by being attentive to our brothers and sisters, offering them help when they need it, or simply listening to and encouraging them.

Jeremiah 22:29. The repetition of the word "land" highlights that Jehovah wanted his people to pay close attention to his message. This makes us think that we too should listen carefully to the counsel we receive in the Bible and at the meetings.

Jeremiah 22:29. It encourages us not to just listen to the advice we receive in the Bible out of habit, but to reflect on how we can apply it in our lives to continue improving as Christians.

Jeremiah 23:1, 2. These verses show how much Jehovah loves his servants. He did not overlook the fact that some leaders were taking poor care of his people. This reminds us that every brother and sister is very precious to Jehovah.

Jeremiah 23:1, 2. It reminds us that, although not all of us have responsibilities in the congregation, we can all show interest in others by greeting them, encouraging them, or making newcomers feel welcome.

Jeremiah 23:4. This verse gives us great peace of mind because it shows that Jehovah never abandons his people. He makes sure that there are people who care for the congregation spiritually.

Jeremiah 23:4. This text encourages us to value the work that the elderly do, as they dedicate time and effort to helping us. It also reminds us to humbly accept advice based on the Bible, knowing that it is for our own good.

Jeremiah 23:23, 24. This passage helps us remember that Jehovah knows perfectly what we do and also what is in our hearts. That motivates us to be the same person both in public and when we are alone.

Jeremiah 23:23, 24. It gives us great peace to know that Jehovah also sees all the efforts we make to serve him, even though no one else sees them, and that he never stops valuing our faithfulness.

Jeremiah 23:28, 29. These verses teach us that God's Word has great power to change people's way of thinking and living. Therefore, when we preach or make a comment in meetings, we strive to support what we say with the Bible and not rely solely on our own opinion.

Jeremiah 23:28, 29. It reminds us that if we allow Jehovah's word to reach people's hearts, it will have a much deeper and more lasting effect than any human argument.

Jeremiah 22:16. This verse is striking because Jehovah does not define knowing him by the amount of knowledge a person possesses, but by how they treat others. Speaking of King Josiah, it says that he defended the poor and those who suffered. Then it adds: “Isn’t that what it means to know me?” In other words, true knowledge of Jehovah always produces compassion, justice, and empathy.

Jeremiah 22:16. This verse reminds us that our love for Jehovah is not only shown by speaking at meetings or participating in the preaching work. It is also shown when we are attentive to an elderly brother or sister, someone going through a difficult time, or someone who needs a word of encouragement. When we reflect Jehovah’s qualities in our dealings with others, we show that we truly know him.

Jeremiah 23:4. This verse conveys Jehovah’s deep love. After denouncing the bad shepherds, he does not merely punish them, but promises to provide his people with shepherds who will truly care for the sheep. This shows that Jehovah never abandons those who desire to serve him. He always ensures that there are people who will feed, protect, and spiritually strengthen his people.

Jeremiah 23:4. This text encourages us to value more the work our elders do. Although they are imperfect, they dedicate a great deal of time to visiting, encouraging, and caring for the congregation without expecting recognition.

Jeremiah 23:22. The expression “Jehovah’s inner circle of friends” implies a very close relationship with him. The false prophets spoke a great deal in God’s name, but in reality, they did not have a close friendship with him. If they had enjoyed such a friendship, they would have faithfully conveyed his words and helped the people to change.

Jeremiah 23:22. It teaches us that before teaching others, we first need to strengthen our own friendship with Jehovah. This verse reminds us that our words will have a real effect on others only if we first cultivate a good relationship with Jehovah through study and prayer.

Jeremiah 23:29. It shows us the comparison Jehovah makes between his word and fire and a hammer. Fire can purify and eliminate what is useless, while a hammer can break even a very hard rock. This is how the Word of God is: it has the power to change thoughts, tear down prejudices, and soften hearts that seemed impossible to transform.

Jeremiah 23:29. It reminds us that the outcome depends not on our ability to convince people, but on the immense power of Jehovah's message itself. This verse encourages us to rely more on the Bible when we preach or when we encourage someone. Sometimes we think we don't know how to explain things very well, but what truly transforms people is God's Word.