It can be dangerous to be chosen by God for service. Jeremiah learns about the threats to his life directly from God who also promises to punish these offenders. Have you ever been fearful to share your faith or do the work you are doing for the kingdom?
I wasn’t concerned until I read recently that I live in one of the top 50 countries where Christians are persecuted. According to an article in Christianity Today, Mexico is 37th of the 50 countries on a watch list for extreme persecution. Despite that, I do not feel unsafe. I have confidence in the one who is fighting my battles.
Jeremiah trusted God, too. But he was curious to see what God was going to do to punish them. “Let me see your vengeance against them, for I have committed my cause to you.” Jeremiah does not appear to be frightened. He didn’t run for his life and hide. We shouldn’t either.
It’s been decades since the Columbine massacre in 1999 in Littleton, Colorado. Yet, there are times when I wonder if I would have been unwavering in my faith like teenager, Rachel Scott. Thankfully, after spending lots of time with God over these past several years, I would most certainly stand bravely and confess my faith and allegiance to him. I have nothing to lose and so much more to gain.
Sure, I might lose my life here on earth, if the threat scenario was extreme, but I’m only a guest in this place. My forever home is with Jesus, and he is already there preparing a place for me. John 14:2 says, “There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?” Paul quotes Isaiah in 1 Corinthians 2:9 when he says, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” We can’t even imagine. I’m beyond excited to see what is yet to come.
C.S. Lewis brilliantly said, “Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.” What does that mean to you? How important is your Christian faith to you? For me, it defines me and how I view the world. God’s word is the ultimate authority for me and the choices I make.
Jeremiah was all in for God, too. We have been reading about how appalled Jeremiah has been by the behavior of his contemporaries. They continue to snub God and go their own way. Little did Jeremiah know about the people out to get him. God assured Jeremiah saying, “I will bring disaster upon them when their time of punishment comes.” God will do the same for those who harass and bully us about our faithfulness. As God’s chosen, we have nothing to fear.
Let’s pray … Lord, you are so good, and your faithfulness endures forever. Thank you for all the protection you provide to keep me safe. Continue to give me the courage to speak out about you. Give me the boldness to share with others your life-giving promise of salvation. May I see the openings to introduce them to your loving kindness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
