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Jeremiah 23:5–6 — “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”

Jeremiah proclaimed a promise of restoration in the midst of judgment. God would raise up a righteous Branch from David’s line, a King who would reign with justice and righteousness. This prophecy finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the true heir to David’s throne. His coming brings both salvation and safety to His people.

The image of a Branch suggests new life springing forth from what seemed dead. Israel’s kingdom lay in ruins, but from the line of David would come the Messiah. Gratitude swells when we realize that God brings life out of barrenness and hope out of despair.

This King is called “The Lord Our Righteousness.” Christ does not merely teach righteousness; He is our righteousness. Through Him we are justified, clothed in His perfection, and made right with God. Gratitude grows when we remember that our standing before God is not based on our works but on Christ’s finished work.

His reign is marked by justice, unlike the corrupt rulers of Israel’s day or the flawed governments of our own. Gratitude for Christ as King leads us to long for His kingdom, where righteousness will dwell and peace will reign.

For believers, this prophecy anchors our hope. Though the world groans under sin, we look to the Branch of David, who will restore all things. Gratitude steadies us as we await His reign.

Christmas reminds us that the righteous Branch has come, and New Year reminds us that His kingdom will one day cover the earth. Our hearts should overflow with thanks that our King is both Savior and Righteousness.