Scripture
“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)
Observation
These are God’s words to a young, probably terrified Jeremiah. Before Jeremiah had done anything—before he was even born—God had already known him, chosen him, and set his life apart for something bigger than himself.
But when we read further, especially into chapter 2, we realize something deeper: Jeremiah’s calling echoes Israel’s story. They, too, were known by God. Formed, rescued, set apart to be a light to the nations. But now? They’ve forgotten who they are. They’ve traded the living God for empty idols, and chased political alliances instead of trusting the One who brought them out of Egypt.
Jeremiah’s life becomes a living sermon: a reminder of the calling Israel left behind—and an invitation to return.
Application
This passage hits close to home. There are days I forget who I am. I chase things that seem shiny, urgent, or just easier than following God’s call. Like Israel, I start digging my own wells, hoping they’ll hold water—but they don’t. I put my trust in people or plans that eventually let me down. But then I read this verse, and it stops me: Before I formed you, I knew you. That kind of knowing is personal. It’s not about performance. It’s not fragile. It’s deep and tender.
Jeremiah didn’t feel ready—and honestly, I often don’t either. But maybe readiness isn’t the point. Maybe trust is. Trust that the One who formed me also called me. And trust that walking with Him—even when it’s hard—is still better than running after things that will never last.
Reflection Questions: Where have I drifted from God’s call on my life—even in subtle ways? What am I trusting in right now that can’t actually carry me?
Prayer
God, thank You for knowing me—deeply, personally—even before I was born. I confess that I sometimes forget who I am in You. I chase things that don’t satisfy. I trust what won’t last. But You keep calling me back. Help me live from the truth that I am known and set apart by You. Give me the courage to walk in that calling today. Amen.
