God’s Strength

Learn, as Jeremiah did, to rely on God’s strength instead of your own.

“O LORD, my strength and my stronghold, and my refuge in the day of distress […] ‘This time I will make them know My power and My might; and they shall know that My name is the Lord.’”—Jeremiah 16:19, 21 NASB

Jeremiah felt isolated, surrounded by people who chased the wrong goals and had the wrong perspective. These people “inherited nothing but falsehood, futility, and things of no benefit” (v. 19). They had forsaken God and been deceived by other ideas.

Jeremiah mourned for their mistakes, hoping they would repent. Overwhelmed, he called out to God, who was his only hope. Only God could provide the strength he needed. When others rejected him, he could take refuge in the Lord, his stronghold.

Jeremiah realized that someday God will correct every wrong. Someday the nations will come to Him from the ends of the earth, realizing the futility of their ways. Someday God will make known His great power and might.

As Jeremiah experienced, it can be lonely to serve God. Those who follow Him can face rejection and criticism. They can be troubled to see so many people rejecting the Gospel, going their own way, and not repenting. It can be overwhelming to see how few turn to God in a world filled with sin and problems.

Make sure you’re leaning on God’s strength. Be faithful, and concentrate on completing His assignments for you. If you feel alone or burdened, you can call on Him anytime.

He is ready to comfort and reassure you, to give you hope, to take away your burdens, to meet your needs, to renew your strength, and to be your stronghold and refuge.

Reflection Question: In which area of your life do you need to rely on God’s strength today?