“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart;

I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV)

The Bible says that words have the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21). The words that you believe about yourself ultimately determine your identity and your actions. This passage is a dialogue between Jeremiah and God. It reveals two competing “words” about Jeremiah – one from God’s perspective and another from Jeremiah’s own perspective. Notice the difference.

God: I knew you. I formed you. I set you apart. I appointed you as my spokesperson.

Jeremiah: I don’t know how to speak. I’m too young. I am afraid.

God: I am with you. I will rescue you.

We know now that Jeremiah went on to become one of the greatest prophets in Israel. Jesus was even identified with Jeremiah (Matthew 16:14). This proves that God knew Jeremiah better than Jeremiah knew himself. Ultimately, God would have the final word on the life and ministry of Jeremiah.

The same is true of you. You can think of yourself as insignificant and unimportant. You can let your insecurities and past failures overwhelm you. You may even have started to believe that you are a failure or a loser. Well, God disagrees with you! As far as He is concerned you are special, wonderfully made and He has a plan and purpose for your life.

Don’t believe what others or even yourself say about who you are. Let God determine the truth about you. Let God have the final word.