Jeremiah 1:4-10

Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking Him to meet with you and speak to you.

Bible Reading

The Word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” “Ah Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.” But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone I send you and to say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord. Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “Now, I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”

– Jeremiah 1:4-10

Devotion

Jeremiah was the last great prophet of the Southern Kingdom. God’s final judgment was predicted, yet a repentant heart among those in the nation was still an option for mercy, unbelievably, if heeded. However, the unheeded pleadings were now leading to an impending dark hour of the Babylonian captivity. This message of judgment made Jeremiah immensely unpopular. He would be thrown into prison for proclaiming such a negative message. In the end, Jeremiah was shown to be God’s true messenger. It is important to note: God had set Jeremiah apart for his life’s work even before he was conceived. His age did not matter because God was going to be with him to support him. His words were given to him by God, thus authoritative and true. His message and ministry would impact the rise and fall of many nations, not just his beloved Israel and Judah.

The Big Question

Jeremiah had a tender heart that could represent the heart of God. The downside was that his heart was easily discouraged. How has God wired you? How is your unique life an opportunity to be a channel of God’s love and truth in a world that desperately needs to hear about Him? Ask Him to show you His plans that He has for you! (Jer. 29:11)

Conclude your time in prayer and silence reflecting on what God has revealed to you today.