In Chapter 15 of the book of Jeremiah, the prophet is lamenting to the Lord about how he has suffered at the hands of his own people, because of his faithfulness to God. He says, “Oh, that I had died at birth! I am hated everywhere I go.” (v. 10) In the very next verse, we find the Lord making a startling promise to His faithful servant: “Surely I will deliver you for a good purpose; surely I will make your enemies plead with you in times of disaster and times of distress.” (v. 11) We find the fulfillment of this divine promise in Chapter 37, where King Zedekiah sends a message to the prophet saying, “Please pray to the Lord our God for us!” (Jeremiah 37:3 NIV)

I have walked closely with the Lord for more than 30 years now, and I can tell you that the longer you serve Christ, the more times you will experience for yourself the truth of the promise above.

Many of those people in your life now who have talked about you behind your back, and who have criticized you for being “too religious,” will eventually come to YOU for advice and prayer when they hit rock bottom. And they will. It’s just a matter of time.

So keep these foolish people in your prayers in the meantime. Set a Christlike example for them. And when they finally turn to you for help, show them the love of Christ, and know that you are planting seeds that will someday bring a harvest of glory for the Lord!

Prayer: Lord, when others insult me, or exclude me, or criticize me because of my faithfulness to You and Your Word, help me to respond in a Christlike manner. Guard me from bitterness and spitefulness, and cleanse my heart and mind from all that offends You. Remind me of Your promises to vindicate me and honor me in the days to come. Thank You that as I turn to You in times of suffering, You will comfort and strengthen me as only You can!