JEREMIAH 20

18 Wherefore came I forth out of the womb to see labour and sorrow, that my days should be consumed with shame?

Who has trials that reach beyond the limits of Jeremiah's?

Have we black looks from enemies-false accusations-bitter taunts-deprivations and physical sufferings? Manifold were those which Jeremiah had to experience. Truly he was an example of "suffering affliction and of patience."

To an extent, the position of the prophet and that of nineteenth century saints is identical: both are the messengers and witnesses of God: both fulfil their mission in the midst of a superstitious, immoral, proud, cruel, godless people. Do we display Jeremiah's faithfulness? Are we fearless in making known the whole counsel of God?

Men of the prophet's stamp do not sacrifice the truth for popularity, for ease, or for fear of evil consequences, though the latter may involve the horrors of a dungeon or even death itself.

What animated Jeremiah? The hope of Israel. It was in this that his comfort lay-comfort which will surely find its sequel in "that day of sweet surprise." Let the mind picture the occasion. Jeremiah in the Kingdom of God and his adversaries cast out. Christ-the avenging judge-present to justify the righteous and to punish the wicked. What glory! What shame!

Bro AT Jannaway

The Christadelphian, Mar 1888