scripture for April 14, 2011

Scripture: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV)

Have you ever heard the song, "He Knows My Name?" It is a very popular song that is sung in many churches all over the world. It goes like this:

"He Knows My Name"
by Tommy Walker

I have a Maker
He formed my heart
Before even time began
My life was in his hands.

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
He hears me when I call.

Do you know where the songwriter got the idea for that song? It is from our Bible lesson this morning.

Our story begins with God speaking to a young boy by the name of Jeremiah. "Before I started to put you together inside of your mother, I knew you. Before you were even born, I set you apart; I chose you to be a prophet to the nations."

Jeremiah heard God and he understood what God wanted him to do, but he was afraid. He answered God and said, "Oh, Lord! I can't be your prophet. I don't even know how to speak; I am only a child."

God answered Jeremiah and said, "Don't say, 'I am only a child.' You must go wherever I send you and do what I tell you. Don't be afraid, because I am with you." Then the Lord touched Jeremiah's mouth and said, "See, I have put my words in your mouth. Today I have chosen you to be over the nations and the kings."

Wow! God had some mighty big plans for Jeremiah, didn't he? Well, God may have some pretty big plans for you too. He knows your name. He knew you before you were even born and he has a plan for your life. When God asks you to do something, don't say, "I'm only a child!" Don't be afraid, do what God tells you to do, because he will be with you no matter what he asks you to do.

Father, thank you for being a God who knows us by name. Help us to remember that when you show us the plans that you have for us, there is nothing to fear, because you are with us. Amen.

Do you believe that God knows you personally and is calling you to have a purposeful life in Him? How does that make you feel? Please comment...