Jeremiah 15:19-21..“Therefore, thus says the LORD: If you turn back, I will take you back, and you shall stand before me. If you utter what is precious, and not what is worthless, you shall serve as my mouth. It is they who will turn to you, not you who will turn to them.” vs. 19
Jeremiah had had enough. He had answered the call of the Lord and spoken the words that had been put in his mouth, and the people to whom he spoke responded with abuse and ridicule. And now he lamented his initial response. As he put it, the Lord had become for him like a deceitful brook, like waters that fail.
But the Lord wasn’t through with him. He told Jeremiah that if he turned back he could continue as prophet. But there was one caveat: he needed to utter what was precious, and not what is worthless. Ultimately the Lord promises, the people will listen to him.
Jeremiah’s words provide valuable insights to any who have felt the call to speak on the Lord’s behalf. So often prophets become discouraged at the first sign of opposition or hostility. At that point some will adjust their speech to gain the approval of the people. They want so badly to be liked that they alter their testimony. Soon what they are saying is little more than drivel, words without power that can never change hearts.
True prophets will forget about people pleasing and remember that their call is to speak boldly.
Thought for the Day: Am I a prophet or a people pleaser?
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