22 March 2024

But the Lord is with me like a dread warrior;
therefore my persecutors will stumble,
and they will not prevail.
They will be greatly shamed,
for they will not succeed.
Their eternal dishonour
will never be forgotten.

From Jeremiah 20:10-13, NRSV

Jeremiah had to pay a great price to remain true to his prophetic calling. Despite his reservations about being suited to such a role, God insisted that he repeatedly preach stark words of warning to a people who refused to listen to or believe what he had to say. He had been publicly ridiculed, he had to live without the comfort of a wife and family, his own words used to taunt him and he had been placed in the stocks. Even those he had previously counted as friends had turned against him. Prior to this extract, Jeremiah had poured out his troubles to God in frank and open complaint or lament. Having voiced his deepest concerns, Jeremiah was then able to profess his faith in God. Despite what was happening to him, Jeremiah could say that the Lord was with him and knew that his enemies would not prevail.

• • What do you suppose enabled Jeremiah to persevere in the face of such difficulties?
  • When have you experienced the support of God in times of difficulty?

Following Jeremiah’s example, speak to God in an honest and frank way about any difficulties you are experiencing.

Image – Jeremiah from Cistine Chapel by Michelangelo