God gave the prophet Jeremiah a word to speak to Israel: “Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: ‘Behold, I will bring on this city and on all her towns all the doom that I have pronounced against it, because they have stiffened their necks that they might not hear My words’” (Jeremiah 19:15). Jeremiah’s words so incensed the chief governor of the temple that he was bound and tortured. Yet, in spite of his suffering, Jeremiah never doubted his calling. He knew he had been given a word from God.
God went on to say to Jeremiah, “I planned a ministry for you and you are to build up my church. I want you to plant seeds of my good news, so don’t worry; I’ll give you every word to speak just when you need it. And don’t ever be afraid of men or fear failure. Remember, as long as you live, I am with you. Do not be discouraged but rise up in faith and do as I have commanded you. You have one divine purpose and that is to speak my mind” (see Jeremiah 1:9-17).
Jeremiah tells us, “The Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the Lord said to me: ‘Behold, I have put My words in your mouth’” (1:9). What an incredible moment in this man’s life. How wonderful to know that God has put his hand on you, revealed his thoughts, and anointed you to speak for him. Then God added this word: “Do not be dismayed before their faces, lest I dismay you before them” (1:17).
Beloved, this is God’s message to every Christian who has ever been called by him. He is telling us, “Don’t let anyone break you down! You have no reason to be confused or despairing. I have told you I am with you and there is no reason for burnout, no cause to quit. No matter what hardships you face or how badly people treat you, I have put mighty pillars around you and I am with you to deliver you!”
Standing For God 