Jeremiah 15:16 Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.

This is a beautiful verse regarding Jeremiah’s joy in having the Word of God. The reason Jeremiah could have this joy and rejoicing is because of his identity with the Lord. He says, “for I am called by Thy name.” His identity as a child and servant of God gave him a sense of security in the face of hardship and persecution. His assurance and purpose were rooted in God. He was in submission to God’s authority and protection. Even when surrounded by hostility and danger, Jeremiah finds peace in knowing he is God's servant. His sense of security came from his relationship with God. 

Many today identify themselves in a negative manner: addict, victim, loser, failure, worthless, etc. These may be problems that a person has, but they are not the person. When we trust Christ as our Savior, we become a child of God. We are adopted into His family. We are Christians. We are Christ’s. We are beloved of God and known by God. God is for us. We all have problems, but we shouldn’t name ourselves by our problem or even our sin. Our identity is in Christ. 

Because Jeremiah identified himself with God, he was able to serve God faithfully for decades, overcoming many anxieties and troubles. The assurance and security that we realize from knowing that we are God’s beloved, should give us a joy and rejoicing in our hearts. We may be Christians that have problems, but realizing our identity in Christ, we should have an unwavering faith that will enable us to be overcomers. 

Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.



Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry