Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” Then I said, “Oh, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, Because I am a youth.”
Where do you feel most comfortable serving? What feels completely outside of your wheelhouse? We often serve in areas where we feel gifted but struggle to see how we can contribute to the areas we do not feel qualified. The context of this passage was that Jeremiah felt unqualified because of his age. God’s word of encouragement to Jeremiah wasn’t about qualifications, skill set, or his talents. God reminded Jeremiah that He knew him, and He had set Jeremiah apart for ministry as a prophet before he had any qualifications or life on earth.
Stepping into service can be overwhelming. We often second guess ourselves, wondering what we really have to offer, but this passage reminds us that the Lord has equipped us for the task, not based on our qualifications but on His power working within us. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” He has made you for life with Him, and He will equip you to serve in the areas He calls you. He knows you completely, and He will be with you every step of the way.
- When has God called you outside of your comfort zone? How did you respond?
- What are some excuses you might give God about serving or leading?
- Pray and be honest with God about the ways you feel overwhelmed or unqualified. Ask Him to give you boldness and courage to follow Him.
