Called by God

The Lord gave me this message: “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.” Jeremiah 1:4-5 NLT

It’s always amazing when children do exceptional things: children with above average natural abilities. Their abilities allow them to achieve mastery at levels, that it would take adults years to accomplish. It’s not uncommon to see passion in young children around a particular area of interest, but many times, that passion dies with time. In contrast, children who go on to achieve exceptional results at an early age, keep that passion alive.

Jeremiah, on the other hand, had a different entry point into ministry; God called him! One can only imagine the terror of this call. Historians believe that Jeremiah was somewhere between thirteen and sixteen years old. His response confirms this terror:  “O Sovereign Lord, I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!” verse 6. His inexperienced mind felt that this call had to do with his abilities and he felt unprepared for the task ahead. But God responded, “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.” verses 7-8.  

Like Jeremiah, people believe that the call of God has to do with their abilities. The call of God requires obedience; Jeremiah had to go wherever God sent and say whatever God said.  God guaranteed His presence. Then God gave Jeremiah his mandate: “Look, I have put my words in your mouth! Today I appoint you to stand up against nations and kingdoms. Some you must uproot and tear down, destroy and overthrow. Others you must build up and plant.” verses 9-10. That is an overwhelming responsibility for an adult but this was given to a youth. Jeremiah needed to understand that success in ministry is not dependent on his age, but dependent on his obedience to God’s word.

That is true for us today. God is still calling. Matthew 11:28 AMP tells us,  “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation].” This is a life changing call. If you accept the offer, then God promises rest. God still gives a mandate and guarantees His presence. “Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:30.

Thought for Today: Friend, God is still calling people today.

Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.