When someone is in a position of power, they may be surrounded by people who constantly tell them that everything is fine. Criticism is easily seen as a threat, whilst reprimands are viewed as attacks. The higher one’s position, the greater the likelihood of living within a circle that merely echoes what one wishes to hear. Yet power unaccompanied by humility can create a distance from the voices that offer correction.

It is this situation that makes Jeremiah’s words in verse 18 ring out so sharply: “Sit in a place of humiliation, for the crown of your glory has fallen from your head!” This refers to King Jehoiachin and his mother, Nehusta. Jehoiachin was only about eighteen years old when he ascended the throne and reigned for just three months, before Jerusalem was besieged by Babylon in 597 BC.

The crown on a king’s head is not merely an ornament. It is a symbol of power, honour and status. However, Jeremiah highlights a bitter irony: a crown that appears so secure can fall. Even the distant southern region, the Negev, will be besieged and the city gates will be shut. Power, it turns out, is not always able to save those who possess it.

Could not something similar happen in our own lives? A ‘crown’ is not always a position of authority. It may take the form of wealth, knowledge, experience, reputation, influence, or even a position of service. All of these can be a blessing, but they can also make us feel too high and mighty to listen, close ourselves off to rebuke, and find it difficult to admit our mistakes.

Humility does not mean belittling oneself, but rather a willingness to acknowledge that we are not always right and still need a voice to correct and guide us along the path that is in accordance with His will.