Broken Cisterns. Jeremiah 2:13

For My people have committed two evils,: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters to hew for themselves cisterns, broken cisterns that can hold no water. Jer. 2:13 

What's wrong with a broken cistern? In Israel, the cistern collected the run off water- not fresh running water (the best source) or water that came from a well (a good source) but from run off water, a much less desirable source for water. Then, if a cistern was cracked or broken, the purest water of that water leaked out- leaving only sludge.  

A broken cistern has no value. God says they have forsaken Him- the fountain of living waters (the best option) and settled by making themselves a broken cistern that can not hold water. 

As this section continues (Jer. 2: 14-19) this is an intentional choice, they are settling for water from Egypt or water from Assyria. This is not in line with God's will. Stubborn people go their own way and do not fear God. 

Why do you think the illustration of broken cisterns might be an affront to God?  

For cultural context, see what happens in times of drought in Jer. 14:3. and Elijah's drought in 1 Kings 18:5. Also, the cistern is referenced as a promise from the king of Assyria in 2 Kings 18:31. Do you see a connection?

Do you see any relevance today- as His people are we settling for less than God's best? 

Additional Passages:

David says… For with You is the fountain of life; In your light we see light. Ps. 36:9

Jesus says to the woman at the well…but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become  in him a well of water springing up to eternal life. John 4:14