This passage comes from the book of Jeremiah, who often felt more cursed than blessed. Isn’t this how we often feel? Like life’s circumstances are so heavy. As though we are too messed up to be used by God? As though our weaknesses outshine our strengths? Jeremiah didn’t want to be a prophet. He felt as though he was too young and didn’t speak eloquently enough for this calling.

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you (and approved of you as my chosen instrument), And before you were born I consecrated you (to Myself as My own); I have appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

Then I said, “Ah, Lord God!Behold, I do not know how to speak, For I am only a young man.”

But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a young man.’ because everywhere I send you, you shall go, And whatever I command you, you shall speak.’ Jeremiah 1:5-7

But through this all Jeremiah knows that he is blessed. Even amidst the doubts he has, he knows that his confidence, his hope is in God.  Yes, he questions and wonders, but He knows that he serves a God who hears his questions and doubts and will help him through it.

Do we see these blessings God has gifted us with? Do we have a confident trust in God that we are planted by the water, receiving blessings beyond our imagination? Do we trust that God will give us what we need to do the work He has in mind for us?