Then, the text records that the Lord knew him. Not only is our God over all of His creation, but He is also involved in all of His creation. It is a comforting thought to the believer to realize that God knows about everything. He knows us (Heb. 4:12), and He knows all that we are experiencing.

Jeremiah is told that the Lord sanctified him. God sets apart His people to accomplish His work. The divine purpose and plan of the Lord is accomplished through His followers. Job reminds the reader of Scripture that those whom God separates, He protects (Job 1:10).

Finally, the Lord declares that He ordained Jeremiah as a prophet. A prophet was to deliver the message and testimony of God. Christians have this commission. We are to be a light (Mt. 6:14-16) to those who are in darkness (1 Cor. 4:3-6).  As a witness for Christ (Acts 1:8), we must be faithful to that which the Lord has entrusted to us(1 Cor. 4:2).

May the believer find comfort and challenge from Jer. 1:5. The providence of God assists to settle the doubts and adversities of the world. The purpose of God inspires us to commitment and service.

When a person needs another person to forgive him/her, it is easy to rationalize that the offended person should give forgiveness. Human nature is such that we minimize our own transgressions as “minor,” but if we are the wronged party things are different! That person who treated us wrong or did something bad needs to be taught a lesson. The Scriptures are filled with admonitions to forgive one another (Mt. 6:14, 15; 18:21, 22; 2 Cor. 2:10; Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:13). Some erroneously believe that forgiveness must be earned. It is true that one can ask for forgiveness from another, but it must be given. Withholding forgiveness is unscriptural.

Forgiveness, by nature, means to restore a relationship. One has not forgiven someone if they hold animosity toward the individual. Forgiveness is difficult as long as one is centering his or her thoughts upon self. Forgiveness is made easier when one recalls that each of us is a guilty sinner, and Christ has been gracious toward us. So likewise forgiveness should be extended to others (Eph. 4:32). It should be noted that Christ forgave us before we asked for it. Therefore, we should forgive others even if they do not ask us too.

Believers sometimes struggle with accepting that their sins are completely forgiven. The Scriptures are filled with passages that state that Christians are forgiven by God’s grace (Rom. 4:7; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14; 2:13; 1 John 1:9; 2:12). God is perfect. His work is perfect (Deut. 32:4). His ways are perfect (Psa. 18:30). Therefore, His forgiveness is perfect as well.

As children of God, we should follow God’s admonitions. We should completely forgive others.  We should refuse to hold grudges (Jas. 5:9). We must accept that the Lord has totally forgiven our sins. We need to walk in a spirit of forgiveness!

            Throughout history, the United States has benefited from God’s blessings. This nation was established upon Biblical principles. God has honored such a foundation and allowed America to become a leader in the world.

            However, today we are seeing increasing evidence of “political correctness.” Politicians conduct polls to see what is popular instead of seeking the correct action. Righteousness is defined in the 1828 Webster’s dictionary as “conformity of heart and life to the divine law.” Most believe that truth is relative. They cry as Pilate, “What is truth?” (John 18:38).

            The reader of Scripture will understand that it is impossible for anyone to always do what is right. Even the Apostle Paul admitted that he struggled with doing right (Rom. 7:15-25). The Bible further declares that those who do not know Jesus Christ as Savior cannot please God (Rom. 8:8, 9).

            What then should a Christian desire of his or her government? Is it enough that our elected officials work to better the economy and secure jobs for the people?

1 Timothy 2:1-3 provides an answer. Christians should pray for all in authority to lead in godliness and honesty. This may be the New Testament parallel to the righteousness of a nation (Prov. 14:34). It is impossible to establish a perfect society, but it is “good and acceptable in the sight of God” for His children to seek His aid for our leaders. The “liberals” ignore God’s truth concerning the sins of society such as homosexuality and abortion. The “conservatives” demonstrate a critical spirit and ignore the Scripture’s commands to have compassion. What we need is for God’s people to pray. James 4:2 reminds us that if we do not ask, we will not receive.