How can we overcome feelings of inadequacy when called to serve God? Jeremiah’s Honest Protest—And Ours “Alas, Lord GOD,” I said, “I do not know how to speak, for I am too young!” (Jeremiah 1:6) We know the feeling: “I’m not gifted enough… I’m too inexperienced… What if I fail?” Jeremiah’s cry captures the knot in the stomach that often appears the moment God calls. God’s Immediate Answer (Jeremiah 1:7–9) • “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ For you must go to everyone I send you and speak whatever I command you.” (v. 7) • “Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you.” (v. 8) • “I have put My words in your mouth.” (v. 9) Three antidotes surface: 1. God’s commission—He assigns the task. 2. God’s presence—He stands with the servant. 3. God’s equipping—He supplies the very words. What Truths Disarm Our Inadequacy? • God knew and set us apart before birth (Jeremiah 1:5). • Our competence comes from God, not ourselves (2 Corinthians 3:5). • Christ strengthens us for every calling (Philippians 4:13). • Apart from Him we can do nothing—so dependence is normal, not weakness (John 15:5). • He has not given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control (2 Timothy 1:7). Snapshots of Others Who Felt Too Small • Moses: “I am slow of speech and tongue.” God replied, “I will help you speak” (Exodus 4:10–12). • Gideon: “My clan is the weakest… and I am the youngest” (Judges 6:15). The LORD: “I will be with you.” • Isaiah: “Woe is me… I am a man of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5). The seraph touched his lips—God supplied cleansing and words. • Timothy: young and timid; Paul urged, “Let no one despise your youth” (1 Timothy 4:12). Practical Ways to Walk in God’s Sufficiency • Admit the feeling—then hand it to the Lord rather than hiding it. • Anchor in specific promises; speak them aloud when doubts resurface. • Prepare diligently, but rely consciously: pray as you plan, “Lord, guide my study and my speech.” • Step forward in small obediences; faith grows through motion, not in theory. • Invite trusted believers to encourage and, when needed, correct. • Keep the focus on God’s message and people’s need, not on personal performance. Promises to Memorize and Speak Aloud • “I am with you to deliver you.” (Jeremiah 1:8) • “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) • “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) • “He who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24) A Closing Invitation to Step Forward God never called a self-sufficient servant—only willing ones. Let Jeremiah’s journey remind you that the God who appoints also accompanies. Feelings may whisper “inadequate,” yet His Word declares “equipped.” Take the next obedient step and watch Him prove, again, that He is enough. |
    |