July 29th~No Barriers

2 Kings 21:1-9


2 Chronicles 33:1-9


2 Kings 21:10-17


2 Chronicles 33:10-19

2 Kings 21:18


2 Chronicles 33:20


2 Kings 21:19-26


2 Chronicles 33:21-25

2 Kings 22:1, 2


2 Chronicles 34:1-7

Jeremiah 1:1-2:22

We advanced the timeline of Judah by three kings — Manasseh, Amon, and Josiah. These three are heirs of the good king Hezekiah. Manasseh started out doing what was evil in the Lord’s eyes but later repented of his actions. Amon also did what was evil but did not repent; he was assassinated only two years into his reign. Josiah was very much like Hezekiah; unfortunately, he will be the last righteous king of Judah. The nation will be destroyed soon after.

Here, also, is where the next prophet comes into the picture — Jeremiah. He began his ministry during the reign of Josiah and prophesied up until the last king of Judah. In other words, Jeremiah was the prophet that witnessed the fall of the country. Though he would do everything the Lord asked of him and warn His people of their doom, they would not listen to him. As a result, they will be handed over to their enemies and Jerusalem would be decimated.

What I love about King Josiah and the prophet Jeremiah is that their call to serve the Lord began at a young age. “Josiah was eight years old when he became king... but during the eighth year of his reign (at 16), he began to seek the God of his ancestor David” (2 Chron. 34:3). When God called Jeremiah, He said, “Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as My spokesman...,” but Jeremiah said to the Lord, “I am too young!” (Jeremiah 1:5, 6).

Daily Reflection

We have seen many times in the Old Testament that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things for Him. Neither age, nor gender, nor social status, nor physical handicaps are deterrents to the God of heaven, if He so desires to use a person for His service. Much like Moses, who used his speech impediment as an excuse not to be able to serve the Lord, Jeremiah used his age as a barrier; but, with the Lord, there are no barriers. As He told Moses, He told Jeremiah, “You must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. Don’t be afraid, for I will be with you and will take care of you.” Then, He touched Jeremiah and said, “See, I have put My words in your mouth” (1:7-9).

Have you ever given God an excuse for not being able to serve Him? Have you erected barriers to keep Him from using you for His ministry? What were they?

Why did you avoid God’s call to serve Him? What are you afraid of? What are you avoiding?

Using excuses is just another way of saying no to God. While you may voice commitment or devotion, you really don’t want to be used by Him. You are scared. You lack confidence in God’s abilities. You do not trust Him. But, remember, with God there are no barriers! The barriers that exist are only of your own making. As the sovereign God, He is able to do that which you cannot imagine. He is able to overcome all obstacles to accomplish His purposes, but you must take your guard down and trust that He knows best. No excuses! No barriers! Just faith.

BiAY.org |Day 210 — 155 Days to Go