This morning, as I was listening to CeCe Winans sing the Goodness of God, I suddenly remembered the prophet Jeremiah’s frustration with his ministry. People mocked, criticized, complained, and ridiculed him every day. They were trying to find a way to take revenge on him because they did not like his fiery message.
In anger Jeremiah said, “I’m not preaching anymore! I will not mention the Lord, nor speak His name ever again.” But the word of God was stirring inside his heart so fervently, that it was like a flame of fire shut up in his bones. He couldn’t hold it back, he had to preach. That was the only way to relieve the tension. He had to do what God had called him to do.
That became Jeremiah’s final answer to the whole matter. With every breath, he was going to do the will of God, no matter how much they reviled him, God’s approval was enough.
Jeremiah 20:11 (NKJV) The LORD is with me as a mighty, awesome One. Therefore, my persecutors will stumble, and will not prevail. They will be greatly ashamed, for they will not prosper. Their everlasting confusion will never be forgotten.
Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove