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In the midst of dark times and difficult situations, we are tempted to attempt to figure things out on our own. Sometimes we “phone a friend” rather than petition God for the answer. Instead of making a phone call, make a throne call! Today’s devotion promises that if we call on God, He WILL respond.

Scripture:

Jeremiah 33:3

“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”

Observations:

  • Jeremiah, a prophet of God was in in prison when he heard from God, that He was about to restore and rebuild His people Israel who were in ruin.

  • As it was with Paul and his letters while in chains, it is a wonder that God’s word is unhindered. While we may be corralled by cares and challenges, the word of God cannot be chained. (2 Timothy 2:9)

  • I have found it true, in the midst of adversity, I am more aware of God’s presence and power (Psalm 46:1). Thank God no matter where life takes us, we can depend on Him to be there.

Call to me

  • To call is to cry out for help. Interesting to note, God invites us to call, even though He knows what we need even before we ask (Matthew 6:8). Why is that? Perhaps we are wired in such a way that we would under appreciate the power of asking, seeking and knocking (Matthew 7:11). If it comes too easy, maybe we would be tempted to under value the privilege of being in relationship with God.

  • Notice, God instructs Jeremiah who to call on; Him. How often are we tempted to seek help from others who are incapable of addressing our needs.

  • Depending on the magnitude of the problem, some are able to help, but unwilling. While others are willing but unable. Regardless of the size of the problem, God is not only willing, but He is also able. (Ephesians 3:20).

and I will answer you

  • God informs Jeremiah that if he calls, He will answer. This is not a promise exclusive to a pious prophet, but for all people alike. (Romans 10:13). His eyes and ears are always open to our cries for help (Ps. 34:15).

  • Notice how definitive the words I will are. We can be assured, unlike people who may avoid us, ignore us, forget about us or be too busy to respond to us, God will answer. He did not however indicate when He would answer, or how He would answer. Sometimes we have to wait on the Lord and be of good courage (Psalm 27:14). May our hearts cry be, “I don’t mind waiting, on the Lord.”

and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known

  • God promises to reveal and make known what was invisible; to us. Just because we cannot see it, does not mean it does not exist. Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, neither has it entered the heart of man the things that God has prepared for them that love Him; but it is revealed to us by His Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:9).

  • When God speaks, His words shines light on our path, providing understanding and confidence for the journey (Psalm 119:130).

  • What a privilege to call on the Creator of the universe and for Him to respond and reveal His plan for restoration that may not be visible in our present reality.

Applications:

  • We must call on and rely on God instead of people.

  • We can be confident when we call on Him that He is faithful to respond.

  • We should expect for God to reveal to us what we presently cannot see or understand.

  • We must be patient as we wait for God’s response to reveal His will and future plans.

  • We can hold on to God’s word while waiting on manifestation of what He promised.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I find myself uncertain which way to turn or which way to go. I admit that at times I have treated prayer as a last resort instead of my first response. Help me call on You as my one and only choice. You said if I call You, You will answer me and reveal great things that I do not know. Thank You for being so present and accessible. Help me to be patient and look and listen for Your response, because I know You will answer, In Jesus name I pray, amen.