Jeremiah 1:18-19 “’Now behold, I have made you today as a fortified city and as a pillar of iron and as walls of bronze against the whole land, to the kings of Judah, to its princes, to its priests and to the people of the land. They will fight against you, but they will not overcome you, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.’”
Observation: God appointed Jeremiah as His prophet to Judah; Jeremiah had not volunteered. Jeremiah expressed concern about his youth and weaknesses while God assured him that He had taken care of these small problems. Notice that God didn’t deny anything Jeremiah pointed out; He simply intended to overcome them.Then comes this fascinating passage, as God commands Jeremiah to bring hard pronouncements to the people. God said He had made Jeremiah as a fortified city, as a pillar of iron, and as walls of bronze. God further promised that although the people would fight against him, they would not prevail, because God was with him.
Application: What a heartening passage for any man or woman called to do something difficult or intimidating. Think about it: God can make us who are simply soft flesh like a fortified city, impregnable to the attack of the enemy. Easily breakable bones can be transformed into a body like pillars of iron as we take our stand for Him. These bodies, which we know to be so prone to being bent by age and breached by illness can be made by God like walls of bronze, able to withstand anything the enemy can throw against us.
What an encouraging thought that God promises supernatural transformation as I undertake what He has called me to do. It is so easy for me to look upon my inadequacies as Jeremiah did—tired flesh, weak bones, and lack of stamina throughout. But God calls me to see myself as He sees me: equipped and armored by Him, fortified by His strength, made able by His presence to stand firm against all opposition. So be encouraged, O my soul. Take heart, for what He has called me to do, He will enable to be accomplished. How sweet it is that this weak instrument of flesh becomes a mighty tool of effectiveness when wielded by God in a cause to which He has called me.
Prayer: Lord, You are reminding me of my weakness, of my need to rely upon You to accomplish what You have called me to. Your purposes for me are so much greater than anything I could conceive. Thank You Lord, for taking my small yes and turning it into something worthwhile in Your kingdom.