173 Monday, June 22, 2009

173 Jeremiah 012 – 014; Acts 1.1 – 1.14

I have sat around and listened to those who had it tougher in their life than I have had it. There are times that guilt washes over me for not having it rougher in my life. Then there are those moments I am thankful for just the way my life is (then I feel a little less guilty.) Jeremiah is trying to figure out what is going on in his life and the life of the people of Israel. Jeremiah is wondering how long is the devastation going to last? Here is what the Lord gives in reply,

Jeremiah 12:5 (MSG)
5 "So, Jeremiah, if you're worn out in this footrace with men, what makes you think you can race against horses? And if you can't keep your wits during times of calm, what's going to happen when troubles break loose like the Jordan in flood?

Wow! This response reminds me of some tough marine sergeant who is trying to motivate his soldiers. Boot camp is rough but combat is much tougher. God is telling Jeremiah that you have not seen anything yet. God tells him that the people and the land will be turned over to Israel’s enemies. I believe that the Lord wants Jeremiah to have a different mindset. God wants him to see life a little differently. Perhaps Jeremiah is to see that things aren’t as bad as they could be. In those times practice that mindset with an eye on possibility that if things do get worse the Lord will provide there as well.

Christ did not come so we could be enthusiastic spectators of His acts. This is basically what the introduction to the book of Acts says to us. It is a great introduction to this book to help us understand that the Spirit came to work in and through us.

Acts 1:8 (MSG)
8 What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."

We are to be participators in this awesome story of the redemption of the human race. Today ask yourself; are you truly filled with the Holy Spirit? Also ask yourself; are you a spectator or a participator in God’s grand plan?