Jeremiah 33:3 “`Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'”

I have heard this verse quoted numbers of times, mostly by people who had little idea what they were talking about! That’s because most of them were either casual Christians or speaking to casual Christians. In such cases, I really don’t think it applies, or else it applies in a negative sense, that is, “You’ll not understand what I tell you.” The Lord said this to Jeremiah because Jeremiah was committed to listening to God whatever He said, and on top of that, to obeying whatever he was told. Frankly, most people aren’t that way. God speaks to receptive hearts, but those that are set on doing their own thing don’t hear much from Him. None of us can grasp the totality of what God is doing, much less the totality of God Himself, but if our hearts are committed to obedience, He reveals more and more of Himself and His plans, if we will ask. God doesn’t want to “keep us in the dark,” but He speaks to those who are listening.

Sometimes I want to know what God is doing, and sometimes I think I’m better off not knowing! For example, I don’t think I could handle knowing ahead of time the details of when and how I will leave this life. However, I do desire to know whatever God wants me to know to be more effective in His service. I have experienced the “word of knowledge” (1 Corinthians 12:8) quite a few times, and every time it has made ministry easier and more effective. Just recently I have had a Christian relative try to say that such moments, which they also have experienced, are “ESP.” To me, that dishonors God. I don’t think that person can expect much deeper revelation than knowing whether or not to pick up the telephone (which is what they were referring to). I want to know whatever is necessary to motivate me to do whatever God wants me to do, and I want to know whatever I need to know to do it right. I believe this verse promises me that.

Father, You have shown me many things over the years, and I’m sure You will continue to do so. Help me seek You more than the revelations, You more than the blessings, so that I won’t be distracted from what You have for me. I remember times when I’ve gotten that backward; help me learn from those experiences. Help me communicate that which You want me to share, but not do so in a prideful manner. Help me be silent when the time is not right for sharing. That’s a hard one for me! May my focus be on You, first, foremost, and always, so that Your Name may be hallowed and Your kingdom come as Your will is done in and through me, for Your glory. Thank You. Hallelujah!