Old Testament
Jeremiah 1:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But the LORD told me, "Don't say 'I'm just a child.' You will go wherever I send you, and you will say whatever I command you to say.
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But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak.
What Jeremiah 1:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing Jeremiah, who feels inadequate because of his youth. God reassures him that his age does not disqualify him from being a messenger. Instead, God emphasizes that Jeremiah will be sent to deliver important messages wherever He directs him. This highlights the idea that God equips those He calls, regardless of their perceived limitations. The command to speak whatever God commands shows the importance of obedience and trust in God's plan. Jeremiah's feelings of insecurity are met with divine assurance, reminding us that God sees potential in us that we may not recognize in ourselves. This interaction sets the stage for Jeremiah's prophetic ministry, emphasizing that God empowers individuals to fulfill their purpose, even when they doubt their abilities.
How to apply Jeremiah 1:7 to your life
When faced with self-doubt or feelings of inadequacy, remember that God can use you regardless of your age or experience. Trust in His guidance and be willing to step out in faith, knowing that He equips you for the tasks He sets before you.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: The Call of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:1–19)
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Jeremiah
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 1:7
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 1:7 mean?
Jeremiah 1:7 means that God is telling Jeremiah not to let his youth make him feel inadequate. God assures him that he will be sent to deliver messages and that he should speak whatever God commands.
How does Jeremiah 1:7 relate to feelings of insecurity?
Jeremiah 1:7 addresses feelings of insecurity by showing that God reassures those who doubt their abilities. It reminds us that God sees potential in us and equips us for the roles He calls us to.
What is the main message of Jeremiah 1:7?
The main message of Jeremiah 1:7 is that God calls and empowers individuals to speak and act on His behalf, regardless of their age or feelings of inadequacy.
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