Jeremiah was a very young man who was given a very big job. God told him that he had been called as a prophet to the nations. He was to be a mouthpiece for God. The thought of it frightened Jeremiah, and he began to make all kinds of excuses about why he could not do what God was asking. He was looking at himself, and he needed to look at God. He was also looking at people and wondering what they would think and do if he took the bold step God was encouraging him to take. God told him to just remember that He was with him and that is all he needed.

Remember that God wants us to face things. Whatever you run from will always be waiting for you somewhere else. Our strength to conquer is found in pressing forward with God. The Lord told Jeremiah in the final verse of chapter one that the people would fight against him, but they would not prevail for one simple reason: I am with you.

Prayer of the Day: Lord, please help me to overcome my fears and concerns and to stop making excuses about why I can’t do what You have called me to do. Help me to remember that through You, all things are possible, and to trust in Your strength and guidance as I step out in faith, amen.