Old Testament
Jeremiah 14:11
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Then the LORD told me, "Don't pray for the well-being of this people."
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Then said the LORD unto me, Pray not for this people for their good.
What Jeremiah 14:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 14:11, God instructs the prophet Jeremiah not to pray for the welfare of the people of Judah. This directive comes during a time of severe drought and impending judgment due to the people's persistent disobedience and idolatry. God’s refusal to allow Jeremiah to intercede highlights the seriousness of their sin and the consequences they face. The people had turned away from God, and their actions warranted divine judgment rather than mercy. This verse emphasizes that there are times when God may choose not to respond to prayers for deliverance if the people are unrepentant. It serves as a reminder of the importance of genuine repentance and the relationship between obedience to God and His willingness to bless His people. Jeremiah's role as a prophet is complicated by this command, as it reflects the tension between God's justice and mercy. Ultimately, it underscores the need for the people to turn back to God before seeking His favor.
How to apply Jeremiah 14:11 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on our own lives and the importance of genuine repentance. It reminds us that prayer should be accompanied by a sincere desire to turn away from sin. We should seek to align our lives with God's will, understanding that true well-being comes from obedience to Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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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 14:11 mean?
Jeremiah 14:11 means that God instructed the prophet Jeremiah not to pray for the welfare of the people of Judah because their persistent disobedience warranted divine judgment rather than mercy.
What does the phrase 'pray not for this people' indicate?
The phrase 'pray not for this people' indicates God's refusal to grant mercy or intervention due to the people's ongoing rebellion and idolatry.
How does Jeremiah 14:11 relate to the themes of repentance and obedience?
Jeremiah 14:11 highlights the need for genuine repentance and obedience, emphasizing that true well-being comes from aligning one's life with God's will.
What can we learn from Jeremiah 14:11 about prayer?
We learn that prayer should be accompanied by a sincere desire to turn away from sin, as God values genuine repentance over mere requests for help.
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