Day 238: Jeremiah 25, 26 and 27

The Lord sent me to prophesy against this house and this city . . . Do with me whatever you think is good and right (Jeremiah 26:12,14).

On August 5, 1864 during the Civil War, the Union Navy sailed into Mobile Bay. The lead ship was destroyed by a tethered mine and those following faltered amid the confusion. Taking charge of the situation, Read Admiral David Farragut steered his ship around those adrift and uttered the famous charge: “Damn the torpedoes – full speed ahead!” The remaining ships followed him; there were no more losses, and the forts lining Mobile Bay surrendered.

Jeremiah’s ministry was about as welcome in Jerusalem as the Union Navy in Mobile Bay, and the potential consequences no less disastrous. But Jeremiah knew he had been sent by God and, regardless of the outcome, he must be faithful to his mission.

Jeremiah’s courage was not without consequence; he was hated, labeled a traitor, imprisoned, and eventually forcible removed to Egypt. In his declining years, however, he could lay his head on the pillow at night and know he had done everything asked of him.

A dear saint in my congregation shared with me that she committed long ago to live her life so, when the time came, she could leave this world with no regrets. Would that we all could make that same vow.

Is God prompting you that it’s time to say, “Damn the torpedoes – full speed ahead”? Ask for the strength and grace to be true to his calling.