Tag: Jeremiah 31:3
Week 5–Day 1–God Calls; We Must Respond
Scripture reading for January 26: Jeremiah 1:4-6 “Now the Word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Then I (Jeremiah) said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.”
I remember knowing a call from God when I was barely five years old. I announced to my Dad and Mom that I was going to be a preacher when I was old enough. My Mom was a believer and had prayed over me many times and taught me God’s Word, even at that young an age. My Dad was not a believer and he stated plainly, “No way! That’s the lowest occupation on earth!” Mom didn’t argue, but hid the statement I made in her heart and continued to instruct me and pray. God had already called me as a young child! I had responded as best I knew at five years of age!
In today’s passage of Scripture, we observe that before Jeremiah was even formed by God in the womb, God knew him! Our existence goes beyond our conception or our birthday. God forms each person and give them their genetic makeup and giftings. Billions of chromosomes come together from mother and father but are knit together by God Himself. (Psalm 139:13-16) Before birth, God’s appointed plans are designated by Him for the individual. He knows us intimately and personally and thinks about us with love and affection. (Jeremiah 31:3)
But does this mean that we have no free will? Each person is sovereign and must choose to willingly love and serve God and seek out His will and plan. This sometimes happens early in life, while others go their own way for a time resisting God’s call. Sometimes, like Jeremiah and many others, we have shortcomings we think disqualifies us to follow God’s plan. But through relationship and humble trust and yielding to God we make progress! Instead of excuses, we should ask God to supply whatever we lack.
Prayer: Father God, I am in awe that You personally have taken time to design my life, even from before conception and birth! Thank You for life and Your plans for my life. I willingly respond to Your call to serve and offer my mind, body and spirit to You to do Your will. Amen.