The Word of the Lord came to me

04/08/2009 by John Marsden.

The Word of God was given to Jeremiah. It “came” to him, even from the beginning of his ministry. This was not a ministry he had chosen, for God had formed him in the womb, and he was “consecrated” and appointed a “prophet to the nations.”Jeremiah’s task was to obey, go where God sent him, and speak all that he was commanded to speak. The prophetic words he spoke did not originate in his own heart or mind, nor did they have anything to do with his personal life, feelings, or opinions. Instead, he was a messenger for God, delivering His words.

Throughout his life, these words “came” to him. Jeremiah was used by God because he was faithful, obedient, and trustworthy. So central was this theme to his ministry, that the phrase “the word of God came” appears an astonishing 42 times in the book of Jeremiah! Many similar phrases make the same point.

Even though he simply was God’s messenger, Jeremiah often was attacked, criticized, and rejected. He was accused of manipulation, of interjecting his own opinions, and of being a false prophet. On one occasion, some people wanted him to pray to God on their behalf. He promised, “I will tell you the whole message which the LORD will answer you.” But when he delivered those words, they accused him of “telling a lie,” saying, “the LORD our God has not sent you” (Jeremiah 42-43).

Jeremiah provides a model of the kind of people God can use. Instead of having their own agenda, such people are committed to waiting for His leading, listening for His voice, and obeying His Word.

In your life, seek to be this kind of servant. Wait on God. Know the Word. Seek the leading of His Spirit. Be ready to obey, even when people misunderstand or oppose you.

Have agreat day.

John

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