In Jeremiah 1:5, the Lord told Jeremiah that He had accomplished four acts on his behalf. First the Scripture states that the Lord formed him. It is necessary to remember that children are not the product of the union of a man and woman. Children are given by the Lord (Psa. 127:3). God is the One Who has created us and brought us into existence.

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.