Text: Jeremiah 1:7
”But the Lord said to me, ‘Do not say, ‘I am only a youth,’ for you must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.’”
Introduction
Many people fail to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives because they make excuses. An excuse is a justification for not taking responsibility, often rooted in fear, doubt, or unwillingness. However, God’s calling comes with His empowerment, and excuses can derail a person from reaching their divine destiny.
Key Lessons from Jeremiah 1:7
1. God’s Rejection of Excuses:
Jeremiah said he was too young to be a prophet, but God immediately rejected that excuse.
When God calls, He equips (Philippians 4:13).
2. Excuses Undermine God’s Sovereignty:
When we make excuses, we imply that God doesn’t know what He’s doing by choosing us (Isaiah 55:8-9).
3. God’s Assurance Over Our Weakness:
God promised Jeremiah His presence and words (Jeremiah 1:8-9).
Our limitations are irrelevant when God is involved (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Other Biblical Examples of Excuses
1. Moses (Exodus 4:10-14)
Excuse: “I am not eloquent.”
God’s Response: “Who gave human beings their mouths? I will help you speak.”
Lesson: God uses imperfect vessels for perfect assignments.
2. Gideon (Judges 6:15)
Excuse: “My clan is the weakest, and I am the least in my family.”
God’s Response: “I will be with you, and you will strike down the Midianites.”
Lesson: God often calls the unlikely to do the extraordinary.
3. The Man at the Pool of Bethesda (John 5:6-7)
Excuse: “I have no one to help me into the pool.”
Jesus’ Response: “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.”
Lesson: Faith and obedience are better than excuses.
Dangers of Excuses
1. Delay of Destiny: Excuses prolong the fulfillment of God’s purpose (Jonah 1:3).
2. Loss of Opportunities: Doors of divine opportunities can close (Luke 14:16-24).
3. Displeasing God: Excuses reveal a lack of faith (Hebrews 11:6).
*Practical Steps to Overcome Excuses*
1. Trust in God’s Ability, Not Yours (Proverbs 3:5-6)
2. Renew Your Mind Through God’s Word (Romans 12:2)
3. Surround Yourself with Encouragers (Hebrews 10:24-25)
4. Take Small Steps of Obedience (James 1:22)
Conclusion
God has a unique purpose for each of us. Excuses only serve as distractions that hinder our destiny. Like Jeremiah, Moses, and Gideon, God calls us to rise above our fears and limitations. Trust His word, take action, and walk confidently in your divine calling.
The Rev. Muyiwa Ogunkoy is the Minister-in-Charge Trinity Methodist Ikota, Diocese of Ereko, Lagos State.
He can reached on +234 815 201 3583
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