Jeremiah 1
During last night’s sermon, Pr Shee asked us to pray for the rapidly changing world. He spoke of the exponential rate of changes in our lives today and how it impacts greatly our lives and faith. Indeed, I can relate to many things that he spoke about and the message resonated as I read today’s passage.
Bible Passage: Jeremiah 1
We are starting a new theme this month as we spend it with Prophet Jeremiah.
The 40 plus years of Jeremiah’s ministry covered some of the most tumultuous and tragic events of Judah’s history. If you were to read this book and other books of the old Testament that covered this period, you will know that they rebelled against foreign powers; their kings died in the hands of foreign kings, the nation fell on a downward spiral in their faith that led to the destruction of their nation; and finally, we also see Jeremiah being forced to Egypt.
As we read about Jeremiah this month, we will see that his prophecies did more than interpret historical events. Where there were failures because of their sin, there was righteous judgement. Where there were promises of God, there was healing and restoration for the people. This pattern of judgment and redemption is oft repeated.
For us today, the message of Jeremiah reminds us to consider God’s judging and redeeming work. It also shows us that God uses people and events to advance His purposes and to instruct us as His followers.
When I read the passage from verses 4-19, I can almost see everyone in that scenario. Jeremiah’s call to ministry is similar to other Old Testament accounts. God prevailed against Moses in spite of his objections. Ezekiel swallowed a scroll given to him through divine revelation, signifying that his words would have divine inspiration and origin.
In this passage, God touched Jeremiah’s mouth and declared, “Behold, I have put My words in your mouth.” (Isa 1:9; 6:1-8). Human weakness is no excuse before God when His will is for the person to speak for Him.
Many a times we are worried that we are not capable to do what God wants us to do. We think we are weak. We think we have no talent. We think others are better than us. We think if we do it, we will suffer. We think … we think… we overthink!
When God wants us to do something for Him, He does not leave us alone….
Do not be afraid of their faces,
For I am with you to deliver you,” says the Lord.~ verse 8
See, I have this day set you over the nations and over the kingdoms,
To root out and to pull down,
To destroy and to throw down,
To build and to plant.”~ verse 10
But they shall not prevail against you.
For I am with you,” says the Lord, “to deliver you.”~ verse 19
Jeremiah’s life was certainly not easy after he accepted the commission by the Lord God. But God was always with him, helping him fulfill God’s purpose in his life.
The same can be for us today. If only we are ready to respond to the calling of God.
We need to pray for the fast changing world today. And we need to be part of God’s plan to restore the people back to God once again.