Jer 1:4-5, 4 Now the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 5 ”Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,…”
In order to bring clarity to these verses, it would be beneficial to first have some understanding of what DNA is. DNA is a molecule that carries genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth and reproduction of all known organisms. It is the fundamental and distinctive characteristics or qualities of someone or something, especially when regarded as unchangeable.
The word of the Lord came to Jeremiah and we see his God’s set/established DNA. God worked all things in his life according to the counsel of His will. Note the progression of his life from formation to the purpose. Three aspects of his life are displayed in the verse, #1. creation, #2. salvation, #3. purpose (calling). #1. Creation, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.” This is the beginning of life and it is not random. Eph 2:10 makes clear the purpose for which we were created, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” We are God’s creation, made and perfected in Christ for the purpose of good works. This truth needs to be instilled in our children to help them understand and embrace their identity. They are not accidents or some random chance by evolution with no purpose. They ought to grow up knowing that they are individually created by God, that they are special. “13 For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. 14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.” (Psa 139:13-14). Children who truly know they are God’s creation (fearfully and wonderfully made) will not be easily swayed by bullies, what life throws at them or search hard to discover themselves. God that established the DNA must be relied upon to bring to life the purpose of His creation.