‘“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, And before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations.” ‘ Jeremiah 1:5 (NASB)
I’ve been out of Jeremiah, for a sermon this Sunday. Jeremiah 1:5 is a very well known and often quoted verse. Through my study and preparation for this Sunday, I’ve taken a hard look at what God is conveying to Jeremiah in this verse and, consequently, to each and every one of us.
There’s three points God is making in His statement;
First, He knew Jeremiah. Not after he arrived into this world, not after he grew to maturity, not after he proved his devotion to God, but rather He knew Jeremiah before he was ever conceived in the flesh. God knew you the same way. He knew you from the beginning and He knew when and where you would be. He had already set a place and purpose for your existence from the beginning.
Second, before Jeremiah was born He consecrated him. He what? He consecrated him. One of Webster’s definitions for consecrate is; to devote to a purpose with or as if with deep solemnity or dedication. A synonym definition in verb tense is; to keep or intend for a special purpose. So, I’d surmise that it is fair to assume that God intended to keep Jeremiah, as His own. That He dedicated him, with out question, confusion or doubt, to a special purpose. Guess what… that goes for you and I, as well.
Third, God appointed Jeremiah a prophet to the nations. God “gave” Jeremiah to His people. That’s what God does… He GIVES. John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He GAVE His only begotten Son…
Each of us is known by God, through an through for ever and always. We are set aside, holy, for a uniquely intended purpose in a specific place and time. We are appointed, a GIFT, to the people God has chosen for our lives to touch. Have a blessed weekend!
In full pursuit of the greatest Trophy,
Scott Pace
