A Burning Fire

Jeremiah had been told that God had a plan for his life—that God had formed him, “consecrated” him and “appointed you a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5). Still, Jeremiah often complained about his assignments and the results of his obedience. He even accused God of deceiving him. He felt God had “overcome” him. He felt reproached and laughed at. How often he wished he could do something else.

Had God really deceived Jeremiah? No. He might have felt this way, but he eventually discovered that the only way he would find peace and fulfillment was to simply obey God’s call.

No matter how he felt, and no matter how others reacted, Jeremiah constantly carried the burden to obey God. He couldn’t just decide he wasn’t going to “speak anymore in His name.” Whenever he bottled up these messages, he found that God’s words became “like a burning fire shut up in my bones.” He could not “endure” this situation.

As people of God, each of us has been given a special calling. God has designed our lives with a plan and a purpose. But fulfilling this call can clash with our own will and desires. It may place us in situations that are unpleasant.

Ultimately, we too will learn that we will find joy and fulfillment in obeying God. Follow Jesus, and let Him be your Lord. Surrender your life to Him, and let Him direct your path.