Speaking the truth is certainly not easy. We are not merely talking about whether we want to or not, or whether we can or cannot, but about courage—even if the truth we speak leads others to persecute us. Yet that is the price of the truth. If everyone were to choose the comfortable path in life, there would be no truth left to fight for. 

Jeremiah began his prophetic calling with hesitation because he felt unable to speak. What he meant was his ability to formulate ideas, convey the truth, and convince people to believe and follow what he said. At that time, the Lord promised to be with him and even to sanctify Jeremiah so that he might carry out His mission. Now, Jeremiah 18:18–23 reveals the challenges Jeremiah had to face. A group of people who disliked him began to conspire to eliminate Jeremiah. Why did this happen? Because the truth that Jeremiah proclaimed had, in fact, challenged many people and made those in positions of power feel uncomfortable. 

Faced with this evil conspiracy, Jeremiah knew that only the Lord was his source of help. He prayed that the Lord would protect him and be pleased to uphold justice regarding what was happening. Is this not the very essence of our faith—that ultimately we are forced to be humble in the face of the things in life we cannot control? 

If our lives are currently filled with many challenges or even opposition from those who dislike us, let us not be daunted. Continue to do what is right, for that is what God desires. As long as we strive to be righteous in His sight, God’s justice will always be manifested in our lives. Strive to live in love and truth, for that is how we can express our gratitude for His love and forgiveness.