Blessed in Trust
Jeremiah 17 begins with a rebuke. God is calling out the Israelites for their idolatry, for trusting in other gods and forsaking Him and His teachings. Like a parent with a child who's made a terrible choice, God makes it very clear that these choices have led and will lead to consequences. And yet, rather than only focusing on all that's been lost and will be lost because of Israel’s terrible choices, Jeremiah takes a moment to bring a refreshing reminder:
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.”
Jeremiah 17:7 NIV
He calls those who trust Him “blessed,” even as chaos, sin, and idolatry reign around them. He says that people who trust in God “will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 17:8 NIV)
We get to choose who and what we worship. Who is your confidence in? Who do you trust? If it is the Lord, take heart knowing that in this you are blessed. An abundant life in God, full of fruit even when sin is all around, is the mark of having chosen to trust Him. What an incredible thing it is to be able to make this choice!
You'll Never Share the Gospel Alone
When Jesus sent His followers to share the good news of God’s kingdom, He knew they’d face rejection. Some would listen. Others would turn away—even threaten or oppose them. So He gave this encouragement:
“...do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you."
Matthew 10:19-20
What a relief! Sharing the Gospel can feel intimidating. There is risk involved. What if the right words don’t come? What if someone asks a question that’s hard to answer? Jesus knew those fears and promised His Spirit would help.
Sharing Jesus isn’t about trying to convince. It’s not about control or perfect words. It’s simply sharing your story of hope—hope that could change someone’s eternity.
The Holy Spirit still speaks through ordinary people. God knows the person you’re talking to. He knows their story, their questions, and their ...