Jeremiah was a son of a high priest (a preacher’s son) who was called by God and sent by God. “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.” (Jeremiah 1:5 NIV)
Jeremiah was sent to preach in all the land repentance and the wrath of God. He tried time and time again to turn the people, but he was hated, abused and scorned.
At times, Jeremiah got weary and allowed distrust to creep in. Who could blame him with all the negativity around him and the blatant and outright disobedience towards God? However, God tells Jeremiah, “If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve me…” (Jeremiah 15:19 NIV)
Jesus appeared to the 11 and rebuked them for their lack of faith and said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” (Mark 16:15 NIV)
Jesus also tells his disciples, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have command you.” (Matthew 28:18-20 NIV)
Our responsibility is to share the Word of God to as many people as we come in contact with. This may be in the way you live, the words you use or the things you do. Whatever way you display His word, God wants you to be consistent and persistent in the face of opposition.
All in all, Jeremiah remained true to his calling in spite of the difficult and discouraging times he encountered. If you stand up for what is right, you will be hated, abused and scorned. You will face difficult and discouraging times, but know that your reward is in heaven when facing difficult times.
Resource(s): Personal Bible study, the story resources and the Bible (NIV)
