Jeremiah 26

“Thus says the LORD: Stand in the court of the LORD’s house and speak to all the cities of Judah that come to worship in the house of the LORD all the words that I command you to speak to them; do not hold back a word.” (Jeremiah 26:2, ESV)

Jeremiah had a tough gig. He was called to preach to people who would not listen. We don’t know of a single convert under Jeremiah’s ministry. God gave him words that were like a fire in his bones, but when he spoke them, the people wanted to kill him! They believed the narrative of the false prophets who prophesied peace. Jeremiah’s words cut across the grain, telling them that their great city and temple would soon be destroyed. Now the LORD told Jeremiah to stand in the temple court and speak to everyone without holding back or sugar-coating a single word. Not surprisingly, when Jeremiah finished speaking, the priests, prophets, and all the people laid hold of him and said, “You shall die!

Jeremiah is an example to us of courage under fire. How many of us buckle under so much less than what Jeremiah faced? How did Jeremiah stand so strongly in the evil day?

First, Jeremiah knew that the LORD had sent him and given him these words. Jeremiah could speak with courage because he knew God’s authority was backing him up!

Second, Jeremiah knew that he had a message of hope if the people would repent. There was still time for them to save themselves if they would listen and obey.

Third, Jeremiah knew that his life was in God’s hands. Regardless of what the people did to him, Jeremiah knew that God would be his defense. If it was his time to go, then he would go to be with the LORD.

God has also called each of us to courageously share His words. We are not responsible for people’s reactions—only for our faithfulness. If Jeremiah could stand, depending completely on the LORD, then so can we!

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” (Ephesians 6:10, NKJV)