Don't Let Go

“I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled” (Jeremiah 1:12).

God spoke these words to Jeremiah when he commissioned him as a prophet.  In the context of Jeremiah's call, these words carry a deep sense of foreboding.  God had declared that judgment would come to Israel in the form of destruction, exile, and captivity.  Armies would come and invade the rebellious nation and carry the Israelites away from their homes.

The scene is tragic, heartbreaking, and final: “Therefore the earth will mourn and the heavens above grow dark, because I have spoken and will not relent, I have decided and will not turn back” (4:28). 

Judgment is coming.  Period.

“I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled.”

At the same time that those words carry devastating finality, they also offer a great sense of hope.  They offer a second chance.  Although the whole countryside will be torn apart, God will not allow the Israelites to be destroyed completely (4:28).  After years of exile, God will bring restoration (29:10).  He will bring freedom from captivity.

With the promise of judgment comes the promise of rescue.  With the promise of pain comes the promise of protection.  “He who scattered Israel will gather them and will watch over his flock like a shepherd” (31:10).  And he is watching to see that his word is fulfilled.

Some of God’s promises are tough to swallow.  Some are scary to consider.  For example, “If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God” (Hebrews 10:26-27).

Others promises fill us with great anticipation.  They offer hope in the midst of turmoil.  For example: “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12).  Or the familiar: “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).

Are you running from a promise of God?  A promise that terrifies you and chills your bones?  You’ll need to run much faster, much farther.  Picture a rocket, a bullet, Usain Bolt, a thought, a cheetah, a light—then think faster.  God is watching to see that his word will be fulfilled, and you can’t outrun his gaze.

Are you holding on to a promise of God?  A promise that powers your pulse and centers your sights?  Keep holding tight, with white knuckles and gritted teeth.  Don’t.  Let.  Go.

He is watching to see that his word will be fulfilled.

His word will be fulfilled.