Day 217, or August 5. I'm not one to complain, but—
Our thoughts today are from Jeremiah chapter 20 verse 18. Why did I ever come out of the
womb to see trouble and sorrow, and to end my days in shame?
First the big picture surrounding this verse. Jeremiah preaches to the people of Judah many
times, but as well as God speaking to the people, God speaks to the speaker. He is told
not to marry, which would be hard enough in the twenty-first century, but in ancient days,
when families and the need for sons and heirs was so important, it must have been a real
hammer blow for Jeremiah. However, he takes it, because he knows that God has a reason
for his instruction, even though he never really found out why. Jeremiah ministers faithfully,
and details all of Judah's sins specifically, just in case they didn't know. Then in frustration,
or maybe exhaustion, he complains to God, because things aren't working out like he
planned, and he just doesn't know why, or how to handle this situation.
And now the action step for today. People are often surprised that preachers are normal
people, just like them. Jeremiah was a giant amongst God's servants, but he was a man,
not an angel. He accepts God's will to remain unmarried, and faithfully delivers God's
pronouncements on Judah. However, finally he seems to crumple and question God's motives.
Many of us have done this, I'm sure. I can't be the only one, can I? It may be that you
suspect God only wants perfect people to serve him, and that weakness like this from Jeremiah
is unacceptable. But you would be wrong. Even Jesus questions God in his last hours in the
Garden of Gethsemane, when he says, My father, if it is possible, let this cup of suffering
be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine. Jesus questioned, but
wanted the best. Our questions are all allowed, even if they come from a heart doubting that
God knows best. Ask your questions, but then get on with your life with his help.