SOAP 08/13/2011; Jeremiah 15:20

Today's reading: Jeremiah 13, 14, 15; John 15

S)"²⁰ 'Then I will make you to this people
A fortified wall of bronze;
And though they fight against you,
They will not prevail over you;
For I am with you to save you
And deliver you,' declares the LORD."
    

Jeremiah 15:20 (NASB)

O) This is a promise of protection for Jeremiah. He was called to a very, very difficult mission, to deliver some terrible news to some people who had already rejected God's word. So, Jeremiah was understandably upset about being called to such a tortuous task. So, God promises to protect him. It wasn't just protection from physical harm, though. In verse 19, God tells Jeremiah, "They for their part may turn to you, But as for you, you must not turn to them." God tells Jeremiah that he'll be trying to convince a very, very stubborn people, but in the middle of that fight, while he might have some success, God will protect him from being swayed himself.

A) So, this is more than physical protection, it's spiritual protection from influence. Ella is going back to school in a few days (1st grade!). This is a very, very good promise for me to claim for her in Jesus' name! Public schools are a tough place for a Christian, and the difficulties can start early. So, I will pray that she is protected like Jeremiah was... She will be like a bronze wall to them.

P) Father, You know the kind of difficulties we face, as believers in a world that disbelieves. Children are very impressionable, but they also have incredible faith. God, protect Ella's faith, as you protected Jeremiah. Help her be bold, to express her belief in You. In moments of doubt or confusion, Holy Spirit, remind her of the miracles and wonders she has seen with her own eyes. Make her like a bronze wall to her peers, so that, even if they do challenge her faith, they will not prevail. Save her and deliver her, in Jesus' name. Amen.