◄ What Does Jeremiah 1:7 Mean?

Then the Lord said to me: Do not say: I am [only] a youth, for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you.

Jeremiah 1:7(HCSB)

Picture courtesy of John Heseltine/Pam Masco/FreeBibleimages.org

Verse of the Day

Jeremiah had been set apart for the Lord, from his conception. His prophetic ministry was not only to Judah, but he became God's spokesman to Gentiles and worldly kingdoms as well.

He felt ill-prepared for such a responsible role, and argued that both his young age and his lack of good oratory skills, disqualified him from this tremendous task: "Ah Lord God!" he bewailed, "Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth."

However, God in His grace gave this young man comfort and encouragement for the daunting task that lay ahead: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you," were the Lord’s reassuring words to this young man, "and before you were born I consecrated you."

Jeremiah had been born into a 'priestly' family, from the tribe of Benjamin... but it was not his parentage, his lineage, or the dictates of a board of directors that secured his prophetic ministry; nor was he a self-proclaimed mouthpiece for the Lord, as so often happened in Bible times, and still happens today!

He was called and chosen by the Lord... and those that are called and chosen by God for a specific task, are always sufficiently equipped by the Spirit of God, to complete the task before them.

"Do not say, 'I am only a youth,'" Jeremiah was told by the Lord, "because everywhere I send you, you shall go, and all that I command you, you shall speak."

He was not to worry about being too young or inarticulate, or because of any speech impediment. The Lord in His grace, stretched out His hand and touched the timid Jeremiah on the mouth and told him, "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth."

Jeremiah, like all those that are called, chosen, selected, or sent, was not to worry about the message he was to carry, because the words would be given from above – at the right time. Jesus Himself reminded us that it is not we who speak when we are sent with God's words on our lips, but it is the Spirit of our Father Who speaks in us.

The promises of God do not change, for the Word of the Lord stands fast forever and ever. When the call of God is on a life, it does not matter about one's lineage, heritage, qualifications, suitability, skill, or education – God will equip each one for the task He has called them to do.

May we be prepared to go in the strength of the Lord, no matter where He leads, knowing that His grace is sufficient for His power is made perfect in weak and obedient vessels that trust in Him.

My Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Jeremiah who was used by You to tell both Jew and Gentile the message You gave Him to speak. Thank You that You can use anyone who is ready and willing to hear and answer Your call. You have promised that Your grace is sufficient when, in faith, we respond to Your leading and guidance. Lord, here am I, send me. In Jesus' name, AMEN.