THE HOLY ANTIDOTE

READING: JEREMIAH 1:4-10

Verse 8: “’Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,’ says the LORD”

The call of God can be pretty frightening. At times He sends His people into uncomfortable  assignments. This discomfort can cause a person to try to excuse their way out of such a mission. In Chapter 1 of Jeremiah, such a situation is described. In fear, Jeremiah told the Lord that he could not speak as a prophet because he was a youth. God was not impressed with his input and told Jeremiah he would speak to whomever he would be sent. The Lord insisted that His presence to deliver his  servant would be enough for him. Sometimes people hesitate just like Jeremiah did, and often for the same reason. People fear the response that may come from others who disagree or object. We dread the look of disapproval or the rejecting response that may occur. At those times of reluctance or fear, we can be strengthened and encouraged by God’s exhortation to Jeremiah, which is also for us. Almighty God has promised to be with us to deliver us. When we accept that, we are secure in Him. He is the supreme remedy for our fears. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. God didn’t tell him to not look at their faces, but to not fear their faces. Why is better about the latter?

2. What is necessary for a person to be able to accept God’s promise?