Four part series on Jeremiah 1:5 – Week 4

Scripture (Jeremiah 1:6–10, ESV)

6 Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.”
7 But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak.
8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord.”
9 Then the Lord put out his hand and touched my mouth. And the Lord said to me, “Behold, I have put my words in your mouth.
10 See, I have set you this day over nations and kingdoms, to root out and to pull down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.”

Illustration (Imagine This…)
Imagine a shy teenager clutching a guitar, convinced his talent is too small—until his mentor whispers, “I’ll play through you.” Suddenly, he steps on stage knowing he’s not alone, just as God empowers each of us for His calling.

Reflection
Expanding to verses 6–10, we witness Jeremiah’s hesitation and God’s reassurance:

• Jeremiah’s Doubt (v. 6). “I do not know how to speak”—our insecurities echo his.
• God’s Promise (vv. 7–8). “I am with you to deliver you”—divine presence transforms fear into boldness.
• Divine Empowerment (v. 9). “I have put my words in your mouth”—God supplies both message and means.
• Renewed Commission (v. 10). “To root out…and to plant”—our mission spans both judgment and restoration.

Application

• Name your specific “I’m not enough” moment and lay it before Him.
• Memorize His promise of presence: “I am with you to deliver you.”
• Ask Him to fill your mouth and heart with His words for today’s challenges.

Prayer

“Lord, when I’m tempted to shrink back, remind me that You go before me, then empower my words and my life for Your glory.”

Pastor Brad Little