Jeremiah chapter 15 is a continuation of the prophet’s message to Judah, which includes warnings of impending judgment and destruction because of the people’s sinfulness. In this chapter, we see Jeremiah struggling with the weight of his prophetic calling and the rejection and persecution he faces because of his message.
Verse 1 sets the tone for the chapter: “Then the Lord said to me, ‘Even if Moses and Samuel were to stand before me, my heart would not go out to this people. Send them away from my presence! Let them go!’” This is a sobering reminder of the severity of the situation in Judah, and the extent to which the people have turned away from God.
In verses 10-21, Jeremiah expresses his frustration and despair, lamenting the rejection and persecution he has faced because of his message. He questions why he was even born, and wonders why he must endure such suffering. Jeremiah accused God of not helping him when he really needed it. Like Jeremiah, I had taken my eyes off God’s purpose and was feeling sorry for myself because I was angry, hurt, afraid.
Despite his struggles, however, Jeremiah remains faithful to God and continues to proclaim His message. In verse 16, he declares, ” When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.
This verse is a powerful reminder of the importance of God’s Word in our lives. Like Jeremiah, we should seek to consume God’s Word and make it a part of us, finding joy and delight in His truth even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Furthermore, we can take heart in Jeremiah’s example of faithfulness even in the face of rejection and persecution. He continued to proclaim God’s message, even when it was unpopular and brought him suffering. May we also be faithful to God’s calling on our lives, even when it is difficult, trusting that He is with us and will sustain us through all things.
Let us pray that God would give us a hunger for His Word, and a faithfulness to His calling on our lives, no matter the cost. May we trust in His faithfulness and love, even in the midst of trials and difficulties.