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Jeremiah 20:7–9 — “O Lord, thou hast deceived me, and I was deceived; thou art stronger than I, and hast prevailed: I am in derision daily, every one mocketh me.”

Few wounds cut deeper than rejection. Jeremiah, God’s faithful prophet, faced constant ridicule, mockery, and resistance. His message was true, but his people despised it. He cried out in anguish, weary of speaking God’s Word only to be scorned. Pastoral rejection is not new; it is a burden shepherds have carried for centuries.

Rejection often tempts pastors to silence. Jeremiah resolved to stop speaking, but God’s Word was like fire shut up in his bones. He could not hold it in. Faithful pastors today face similar struggles. They long to quit under the weight of criticism, yet the call of God compels them to continue.

For pastors, this passage validates their pain. To be mocked, misunderstood, or opposed is not failure but part of the prophetic path. Faithful shepherds should not measure success by popularity but by obedience to God.

For the flock, this passage is a sober reminder. When we resist or mock faithful preaching, we wound not only our pastor but also ourselves. To reject God’s messenger is to reject God’s message. The pain of pastoral rejection should move us to gratitude for those who continue preaching despite hardship.

Jeremiah’s endurance shows the power of God’s call. Human rejection could not extinguish divine fire. Pastors today continue in ministry not because the road is easy but because God’s hand is strong.

The faithful shepherd’s scars are reminders that he follows a rejected Savior. Jesus Himself was despised and rejected of men, yet He fulfilled His mission. Pastors who endure rejection stand in His company.