Jeremiah 15:16 Your words were found, and I did eat them; and your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart: for I am called by your name… I. AN IMPORTANT DISCOVERY WAS MADE. 1. Words are the representatives of thought. Have great power to move men's minds. 2. Words derive much of their power from the mind which utters them. God's words are a hammer, a fire, a sword, a balm, a saving and sanctifying power to men who receive and obey them. 3. That which is found must previously have existed. God's Word exists, whether men find it or not. He who finds it is wise, rich, happy. II. A PECULIAR METHOD OF APPROPRIATION WAS MADE. 1. It implies soul hunger. Caused by stress of duty, pressure of persecution, and multiplied sorrows. 2. It affirms that God's words are soul food. Wholesome, nourishing, savoury, saving. III. A DELIGHTFUL EXPERIENCE WAS REALISED. Joy and rejoicing — 1. In what the Word revealed of God. 2. In the way that revelation met his utmost need. 3. In the knowledge of salvation there unfolded. 4. In the prospects to which the attention of God's servants was directed. IV. AN EMPHATIC PUBLIC TESTIMONY WAS GIVEN. "I am called by Thy name," etc. 1. God's name was called upon him. As the saving power, and source of hope and joy, the name of Christ has been called upon us. 2. He was called by God's name. We, by Christ's. 3. He was strengthened by God in all his works.Application — 1. The Word discovered — a treasure. 2. The Word in the heart — a joy. 3. The Word on the lips — a message. 4. The Word in the hand — a weapon. (W. Whale.) Parallel Verses KJV: 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. |
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