Direction from God - 4 March 2009

The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:4-5

God called Jeremiah to be a prophet.  Jeremiah went on to argue that he wouldn’t be able to do it and wasn’t up to the job, just as Moses had when God spoke to him from the burning bush; but ultimately went on to do the job, play the part, that God had called him to do.  God said to him, “Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you.” Jeremiah 1:8

Just as God had a job for Jeremiah, he has a job for each of his followers; although probably not such a big job!  Just as Jeremiah argued that he wasn’t up to the job or wouldn’t be able to do it, we, Jesus followers today, are also very good at rationalising and making excuses and finding reasons why we shouldn’t answer a particular call from God.  It’s not for me but for someone else; it would disrupt my current lifestyle; I don’t have the time; I’m not good enough etc….

Before we go too far down the path of rationalising ourselves out of answering God’s call let’s remember; God knows what he is doing; God doesn’t ask us to do anything that he has not given us the wherewithal to do (whatever we think); God is with us, we are not doing it on our own.

If God calls we should be like Jeremiah and answer that call.  Step out in faith and rely on God rather than relying on ourselves.

Take time today to reflect on the call that God is placing on your life, and how you have responded. Does anything need to change?

Lord, help us hear your call, and then respond with faithful hearts, and play the part that you have in mind for us.

Amen