Jeremiah 20-21 Almost Giving Up, And Then Trusting God

Jeremiah's message given to him by God infuriated those in charge of the Temple.  He was beaten and locked in stocks overnight in a public place so that he would be humiliated.  This led to his fifth and sixth complaints delivered privately to God.  He felt God had tricked him into delivering the message that led to his overnight confinement and public shame.  He admits to God that sometimes he decides it'g just not worth it anymore, and he determines not to say another word.  "But then His message becomes like a burning fire inside me, deep within my bones," Jeremiah said.  "I get tired of trying to hold it inside of me, and finally, I cannot hold it in."

Jeremiah was committed, but he was also suffering greatly for that commitment.  That caused him to even wonder if he should have been born.  My commentary answered that:  "God had a special purpose for your life and designed you to fulfill it.  God makes no mistakes when He calls His servants, and we should take care not to question His wisdom.  All of us have times of discouragement when we've felt like quitting, but that's when we must look beyond our feelings and circumstances and see the greatness and wisdom of God ... It's always too soon to quit."

Father, it's the perfect message I needed to hear today.  Thanks for arranging for me to receive it just when I needed it.

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Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford