People of Judah persecuted Prophet Jeremiah for speaking out the mind of God. The abuse forced the prophet to have an inner battle and consider the possibility of changing the course of action. He thought of stop speaking the truth, but God’s Spirit would not let him do so. Jeremiah’s expressions were quoted as reported,
“O Lord, you induced me, and I was persuaded; you are stronger than I, and have prevailed. I am in derision daily; everyone mocks me. For when I spoke, I cried out; I shouted, “Violence and plunder!” Because the word of the Lord was made to be a reproach and a derision daily. Then I said, “I will not make mention of Him, nor speak any more in His name.” But His word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, and I could not” (Jeremiah 20:7-9).
Lesson:
Christians are required to stand up for the truth and speak out the mind of God at all times. We are expected to say the truth, even when it is not convenient. Of course, persecution will rise against us for doing God’s will, but God has promised us victory! We must not allow pressure and intimidation of others to persuade us into disobeying God. We Christians are God’s children, and we must obey God always. Our righteous efforts will promote God’s name and make more people become thoughtful of him. (People will serve God more when they are thoughtful of him). Also, our acts of obedience will lead to our blessing, since God has promised “… For those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me shall be lightly esteemed” (1 Samuel 2:30).
Prayer:
Dear God, Please help me to stand up for you at all times. Help me to stand up for righteousness and obey you! Please do not let me give in to the pressure of this world and disobey you. Keep me truthfully as required, so that you can be pleased. Let my yea be yea, and let my nay be nay. Also, let me speak out the truth of the scripture to others; do not let me follow opinions that are erratic and/or ungodly. Help me to live according to the bible, so that you can bless me on earth and in heaven. For in the name of Jesus Christ I make my requests. Amen.
