Jeremiah chapter 15 verse 19 (NIV)
Therefore this is what the LORD says:“If you repent, I will restore you
that you may serve me;
if you utter worthy, not worthless, words,
you will be my spokesman.
Let this people turn to you,
but you must not turn to them.
Jeremiah didn’t have an easy ministry. He had to be completely obedient and speak the words God told him to say, even although they were not the words he wanted to say, and the people didn’t want to hear them. Nevertheless they were words that had to be said, so Jeremiah didn’t try to dress them up. Sometimes it would be easy to think that if we get alongside someone at the level they’re at, then it will be easier for them to accept what God has to say. That’s sometimes true in specific instances, but for the majority of circumstances, God expects us to take a stand, even if it is unpopular. If we are obedient to God, and allow the Holy Spirit to move through us, then this should be evident in our lives, and people will be drawn to Him. As Jeremiah was told, “let the people turn to you, but you must not turn to them.” We must not yield to the pressure of popular opinion, if that opinion is not God’s way or will for us.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for Jermiah’s courage and strength which came, I believe in answer to his obedience to Your will. Help me to follow his example. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.