What thoughts come to mind when someone says, “You got this?” Do you question their sincerity or motives? Do you recount the negative things people say about you? Are you reminded of the numerous doubts inside your own head? All these are common questions when we’re called to step up to the plate of something new. While these types of thoughts are common, they don’t represent who God called us to be. In fact, they question the very message from God. Since these thoughts contradict God, we cast them down (2 Corinthians 10:5) and exclaim this affirmation to ourselves, “You got it within ya!”
The Story: Jeremiah 1
In Jeremiah 1, God informs Jeremiah that He called him from his mother’s womb to be set apart as a prophet to the nations. Overwhelmed by this pronouncement, Jeremiah replied that he was too young and couldn’t speak. Although God heard Jeremiah, He countered His dispute. He wanted Jeremiah to know that words weren’t a problem. God would provide everything Jeremiah needed.
Furthermore, God expounded upon Jeremiah’s assignment as Jeremiah would uproot and tear down some while he’d build up others. Then God tested his vision. With correct sight, God gave interpretation for everything Jeremiah saw. God continued to tell Jeremiah about His plans for Jerusalem. With clear plans established, God returned His attention to Jeremiah. He told him to prepare for his assignment. Before concluding the conversation, God issued a warning to Jeremiah. God told him not to fear or He would make him look foolish in front of his audience.
The Lesson
All too often, we’re overwhelmed by new opportunities. There’s excitement about a new adventure. Then fear arises because we see all the reasons we’re unqualified. Unfortunately, our perspective comes from an old and outdated script. We forget that we received a new script when we became part of the family of God.
As part of the Kingdom, we’re citizens, thus new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). Therefore, our identity stems from God. We’re not what we’ve done or who we’ve been. Instead, our history reminds us of God’s transformative power. Because God brought us into His kingdom, we’re new.
Our newness allows us to leave the past behind and walk into the newness given by God. To walk in this new life, we must not allow our perception to hinder where God is taking us. Furthermore, we have to lay aside the fear. Fear is a tool we use to protect ourselves and control our environment. However, it prevents us from operating in the fullness of who God called us.
Yes, uncertainty and doubt are natural reactions when confronting something new. Rather than giving in to adverse feelings, we dig deeper into God. We allow His Word to replace the old script. We also surrender to the Holy Spirit as He instructs us on our identity and the assignment ahead. If we yield to this new life, we walk in faith, knowing God is with us.
