Called to Obey Jeremiah 1:4-19 The LORD gave me this message: I knew you before I formed you in your mothers womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations. O Sovereign LORD, I said, I cant speak for you! Im too young! The LORD replied, Dont say, Im too young, for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And dont be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the LORD, have spoken! (Jeremiah 1:4-8) Jeremiah was from a priestly family in Anathoth, four miles north of Jerusalem in the southern kingdom (Judah). He lived and prophesied during the reigns of the last five kings of Judah. This was a chaotic time politically, morally, and spiritually. As Babylon, Egypt, and Assyria battled for world supremacy, Judah found itself caught in the middle of the triangle. Although Jeremiah prophesied for 40 years, he never saw his people heed his words and turn from their sins. His was a difficult ministry. Often people struggle with new challenges because they lack self-confidence, feeling that they have inadequate ability, training, or experience. Jeremiah thought he was too young and inexperienced to be Gods spokesman to the world. But God promised to be with him. God knew you, as he knew Jeremiah, long before you were born or even conceived. He thought about you and planned for you. When you feel discouraged or inadequate, remember that God has always thought of you as valuable and that he has a purpose in mind for you. We dont have to allow feelings of inadequacy to keep us from obeying Gods call. God promises to always be with us. When you find yourself avoiding something you know you should do, be careful not to use lack of self-confidence as an excuse. If God gives you a job to do, he will provide all that you need to do it. Ask him for the grace to accept the call cheerfully and do whatever he calls you to do with diligence. If God has not given you a specific call or assignment, then seek to fulfill the mission common to all believers—to love, obey, and serve God—until his guidance becomes clearer.
Posted on: Tue, 01 Apr 2014 05:53:53 +0000
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