Lessons from Jeremiah: Divine Vision-Boarding with God
The book of Jeremiah opens with one of the most referenced calls-to-prophetic ministry in the Bible. In a series of conversations that I’m calling “divine vision-boarding”, the Lord prepares Jeremiah for the journey ahead using assurance, instruction and revelation.
The prophet was called at a young age. So he needed to be strengthened for the work ahead of him. The vision was large, the assignment was dire and the Lord needed Jeremiah to stand firmly and speak with confidence, given the kind of declarations he would be making to the nation. Through this divine vision-boarding session, God reveals his vision for Jeremiah’s ministry.
What did vision-boarding with the Lord look like?
1. Assurance of election (vs 4–5)
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.
Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV)
The Lord was showing Jeremiah that he was part of God’s plan to reach the nations with messages and instructions. The call had singled Jeremiah out, and the Lord demonstrated an intimate knowing of the prophet and what his life would be.
2. Instruction to obey (vs 6–7, 17)
But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.
Jeremiah 1:7 (NIV)
We see God instructing the prophet on how to talk and act on this mission: ‘Don’t say you are too young,’ ‘Don’t be afraid of anyone,’ ‘Say whatever I tell you.’
3. Revelation of assignment and identity (vs 9–10, 18)
See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down…. I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall to stand against the whole land…
Jeremiah 1:10, 18 (NIV)
The Lord didn’t only tell Jeremiah what he was not. He also painted vivid pictures of what the prophet was called to be. He called Jeremiah one who uproots, one who plants and builds up, a fortified city, an iron pillar and a few other descriptions. The Lord drew up these images of Jeremiah for him to have a practical vision of his part in the work to be done.
4. Reassurance of his unwavering, protective presence (vs 8,19)
Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
Jeremiah 1:8 (NIV)
The best part about God creating a plan for your future is that he knows the future. He knew everything Jeremiah would face — every hardship, every heartbreak, every pain. And he strengthened Jeremiah’s feeble knees as he gave him visions of his prophetic ministry.
God will always equip those he calls. Jeremiah’s transformation from hesitant youth to confident prophet is a powerful reminder that we also can find strength, purpose, and identity in the vision that God has for our lives.
