The Lesson of the Linen Sash

### Sermon Title: **"The Lesson of the Linen Sash"**

**Text:** Jeremiah 13:1 (NKJV)

*"Thus the LORD said to me: 'Go and get yourself a linen sash, and put it around your waist, but do not put it in water.'"*

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#### **Introduction**

This passage is the beginning of a symbolic act that God commands the prophet Jeremiah to perform. It illustrates a powerful spiritual truth about Israel’s relationship with God and serves as a timeless message for us today. God's instructions to Jeremiah seem unusual, but they hold profound significance.

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### **1. The Linen Sash: A Symbol of Intimacy and Identity**

- **Material and Purpose:** Linen was often used for priestly garments, symbolizing purity and holiness. A sash worn around the waist suggests closeness and connection.

- **Spiritual Symbolism:** The sash represents Israel’s special relationship with God. They were chosen to "cling" to Him, set apart for His glory (v.11).

- **Application for Us Today:** As believers, we are called to an intimate relationship with God, set apart to reflect His character. Are we living in a way that shows we are bound to Him?

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### **2. The Command to Keep It Dry: A Test of Obedience**

- **"Do not put it in water":** Water, in this context, would soften or cleanse the sash. This restriction may signify that Israel should not compromise their purity or allow external influences to alter their identity.

- **Spiritual Insight:** God calls us to obedience, even when His instructions seem unconventional or unclear. Israel failed this test by allowing idolatry and worldly influences to corrupt their relationship with God.

- **Challenge:** Are we willing to obey God fully, trusting that His ways are higher than ours?

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### **3. The Consequences of Neglecting God’s Design**

In the verses that follow, Jeremiah is instructed to bury the sash near the Euphrates River, where it becomes ruined and useless (vv.6-7). This symbolizes how Israel’s disobedience led to their spiritual ruin and exile.

- **Warning:** When we neglect our relationship with God, we risk becoming ineffective in His kingdom.

- **Encouragement:** Restoration is always possible through repentance and God's grace.

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### **4. Clinging to God in Covenant Faithfulness**

- **God’s Desire:** In verse 11, God says He intended Israel to be a people who would "cling to Him" as the sash clings to the waist. This closeness is His desire for us as well.

- **Practical Application:** How can we "cling" to God?

- Spend time in prayer and Scripture daily.

- Walk in obedience, even in small things.

- Guard against influences that pull you away from God.

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#### **Conclusion**

Jeremiah’s symbolic act with the linen sash is a call to examine our lives. Are we clinging to God as closely as He desires? Are we allowing distractions or compromises to damage our relationship with Him?

Let us recommit to being a people who live in intimacy and obedience with God, reflecting His glory in every area of our lives. May we, unlike the ruined sash, remain vessels of honor, fit for His purpose.

**Closing Prayer:**

Lord, help us to cling to You as the linen sash was meant to cling to Jeremiah's waist. Keep us from compromise and restore us when we stray. May we live lives that glorify You and fulfill Your purpose for us. Amen.