Good morning! It’s Friday, August 8th 2025. It’s been a big month for our family—my wife’s sister had her second baby, and just this week her brother and his wife had their first. Two new additions. And it’s funny, babies are precious, but they’re also completely helpless. One look and you’re quickly reminded how frail they are. Honestly, babies are probably some of the most incompetent humans you’ll ever meet…Yet that’s where God starts. Before they can achieve anything, He speaks identity. Before birth, He sets them apart. It’s a reminder that God’s calling is always based on His mercy, never our merit.
Today's Reading:
Jeremiah 1,2; John 10
Scripture
“‘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)
Observation
Before Jeremiah had a chance to speak, God had already spoken over him. His calling wasn’t based on any accomplishments; it was set in motion before birth. Jeremiah’s immediate response is hesitation, “but I don’t know how to speak…but I’m too young.” But God rebuts the but. He doesn’t ask for permission or wait for Jeremiah to feel ready. He reminds him: I formed you. I knew you. I appointed you.
God speaks identity before Jeremiah can offer excuses.
Application
God still works this way. He speaks before I do. He calls before I feel qualified. And yet, when He asks me to step into something, I often respond with, “But I’m not ready… But I don’t have what it takes… But I’m too young...” (Like me, that excuse is starting to get a little old).
But He knew. He knew my weaknesses. He knew my wiring. And He still chose me. Obedience always outranks readiness. But God is faithful to equip those He sends.
Before I was formed, I was known.
Before I was aware, I was set apart.
Before I was willing, I was appointed.
God called me before my excuses.
Prayer
God, remind me of what You spoke before I could speak. Before my excuses, You had a purpose. Before I was born, You had a plan. You already know me. You’ve already called me. Today I lay down my excuses and pick up the assignment You’ve placed in front of me. I give You my yes.
—Chris Kiriakos