“Powerful Words from Jeremiah”
“I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born, I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” “O Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!” The Lord replied, “Don’t say, “I’m too young, for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And don’t be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the Lord, have spoken!” Then the Lord, reached out and touched my mouth and said, “Look, I have put my words in your mouth! Today I appoint you to stand up against nations and kingdoms” (Jeremiah 1:5-10a NLT).
Just as Jeremiah was “appointed” by God to be his “prophet to the nations,” God has a purpose for each Christian. Some are appointed for specific purposes, such as; Samson, David, John the Baptist, Paul, and others. If God gives you a specific task, accept it cheerfully and do it 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 the guidance becomes more clear.
People often struggle with new challenges because they lack self-confidence, feeling they have inadequate ability, training, or experience. Jeremiah thought he was “too young.” But God promised to be with him. We’ve been told, “If God tells you to do something, do it because He’ll never ask us to do anything without supplying us the wherewithal to do it.” Many times, we’re urged by the Holy Spirit to step out on faith and do something, say something, or to try something new. We sense it’s from God, but shy away because of fear. Here’s a statement to remember – “If God says GO, the enemy (Satan) will ALWAYS SAY NO!”
God promises to be with you and me just as he did Jeremiah. He promises his presence, but that doesn’t keep trouble away. God didn’t insulate Jeremiah from imprisonment, deportation, or insults. Likewise, we will face our share of storms, but God not only walks with us in the storms of life, he leads us through them. Let’s open our hearts today and say, “Lord, I’m here and willing to serve as you see fit.” Your obedience just may be influential in changing someone’s life. Don’t let the enemy talk you out of something God has called you to do!
Pastor Carnes
