September 13 Devotion

FIRE IN MY BONES

But if I say, “I will not mention him or speak any more in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.

Jeremiah 20:9

Have you ever been knee deep in ministry that you were certain God called you to when frustration set in? Everything that can go wrong does. You come against unforeseen obstacles. People gripe about things you thought they’d be grateful for. Maybe you even said to God, “Did I hear You correctly? Am I really supposed to do this?”

If that describes you, you have a kindred spirit in Jeremiah. His calling to be a prophet was certain. The word of the LORD came to him and said, “Before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5b).

Even with a sure call, Jeremiah questioned if he was the person for the job. The LORD countered his apprehension with assurance. “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord (Jeremiah 1:7-8).

God called Jeremiah and assured him that He would be with him, and Jeremiah obediently stepped into his assignment. It feels quite happily ever after, doesn’t it? Not even close. In chapter twenty of his book, Jeremiah lays out his complaints against God.

1. This isn’t what I signed up for! “O LORD you deceived me, and I was deceived; you overpowered me and prevailed” (v 7a).

2. I’m being poked fun of and insulted! I am ridiculed all day long; everyone mocks me (Jeremiah 20:7b). The word of the LORD has brought me insult and reproach all day long (v 8).

3. I’m ready to quit! But if I say, “I will not mention him or speak any more in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot (Jeremiah 20:9).

Jeremiah was ready to quit, but he couldn’t. His passion to proclaim God’s Word was like fire burning in his bones. Although he experienced sorrow, persecution, insults, and contempt, he needed to do what God called him to do.

Has God given you a difficult assignment? Has He called you to do something that feels too difficult to complete? Follow Jeremiah’s example and go to God. Cry out your complaints to Him (Jeremiah 20:7-18). Claim His promises and strength, The LORD is with me like a mighty warrior (Jeremiah 20:11), and give Him praise, Sing to the LORD! Give praise to the LORD (Jeremiah 20:13a)!

PASSION Step: What is the biggest challenge you face today? Thank God. He is greater than that challenge.

Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord that thou fulfill it.

Lilias Trotter