“If you have run with footmen and they have tired you out, then how can you compete with horses? If you fall down in a land of peace, how will you do in the thicket of the Jordan? For even your brothers and the household of your father, even they have dealt treacherously with you, even they have cried aloud after you. Do not believe them, although they may say nice things to you.” Jeremiah 12: 5,6 NASB
Jeremiah had faced the hostile and perilous plots of his family members and close comrades. They roared against him, defiant and stubborn, and hoped to cut him off from the land of the living so that his name was forgotten. They planned to silence him by murder. He was like an innocent lamb led to slaughter. He was weary from holding in the weight of Jerusalem’s doom. Judgement was imminent. God’s people had ignored the plight of the poor, orphans, and widows. Furthermore, wicked prophets had offered false peace to Israel; her healing was superficial.
God had called Jeremiah before he was born to speak hard things; however, he was weary. There seemed to be no Balm in Gilead, no cure or safe refuge; and no trustworthy person. Jeremiah cried to the Lord in desperation; his tent was torn down and his flocks were scattered. The weeping prophet’s wound appeared incurable. (Jeremiah 10:19-21)
The Lord gently chastised Jeremiah by saying that if he ran with men, and they tired him out, how could he compete with horses? Horses anticipate the battle; their nostrils flare and snort, and they whinny with the wind. They kick their hooves into the dirt and dust, and take off unafraid. They own the rugged race. To run against mighty stallions, Jeremiah had to look straight ahead. He couldn’t compare himself to others in the race, nor listen to their voices.
If Jeremiah grew weak and stumbled with small hurdles, how would he endure when the battle raged? If he fell in the land of peace, what would happen when the river flooded?
Floods often leave behind a path of destruction. Volunteers must clear debris and waste; and drywall must be stripped to its framework to bleach and purify the studs. Light is also essential to dry out the homes, churches, and businesses. Otherwise, mold and mildew set in.
Jeremiah had to tune out the cynics, focus, and get to work. God demanded holiness!
The challenge continues today. Compete with horses. Set your gaze on Jesus. Don’t let doubt, distractions, or comparison thinking sideline your efforts. Don’t dread the dirt and ditches left behind by broken people. Learn to be comfortable in the uncomfortable. We lose ground when we compare ourselves to others. But Jesus’ example sets us free.
Jesus is love. He is gracious and merciful and compassionate; and He is mighty to save!
Let the thunder of mighty hoofs spur you on. The race may be difficult; and things could get worse. But victory belongs to the Lord!
Ready. Set. Go!
Lily Mae
God does not tell you what He is going to do; He reveals to you who He is.
Oswald Chambers.