Old Testament
Jeremiah 14:7
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"LORD, even though our sins testify against us, act for the sake of your name. We have rebelled against you again and again — we have sinned against you."
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O LORD, though our iniquities testify against us, do thou it for thy name’s sake: for our backslidings are many; we have sinned against thee.
What Jeremiah 14:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the people of Judah acknowledge their sins and failures before God. They recognize that their wrongdoings are numerous and serve as evidence against them. Despite their repeated rebellion, they plead with God to act not because they deserve it, but for the sake of His own name and reputation. This highlights the importance of God's character and mercy, showing that even in their unfaithfulness, they seek His intervention based on His goodness rather than their worthiness. The verse reflects a deep understanding of sin and the need for divine grace, emphasizing that God’s actions are rooted in His nature rather than human merit. It serves as a reminder that repentance involves recognizing our faults and appealing to God's compassion, which is essential for restoration and healing.
How to apply Jeremiah 14:7 to your life
When we recognize our shortcomings, we should approach God with humility, asking for His mercy. Instead of focusing on our failures, we can trust in God's character to forgive and restore us. This encourages us to seek His help in overcoming our struggles and to live in a way that honors Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 14:7
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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 14:7 mean?
Jeremiah 14:7 expresses the people's acknowledgment of their sins and failures before God. They plead for God's action based on His name and reputation, rather than their own worthiness, highlighting the need for divine mercy.
What is the significance of God's name in Jeremiah 14:7?
In Jeremiah 14:7, God's name represents His character and reputation. The people appeal to God to act for the sake of His name, emphasizing that His mercy and faithfulness are crucial, even in light of their repeated rebellion.
How does Jeremiah 14:7 relate to repentance?
Jeremiah 14:7 illustrates the essence of repentance by recognizing one's faults and seeking God's mercy. It shows that true repentance involves humility and an appeal to God's compassion for restoration.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 14:7?
Jeremiah 14:7 encompasses themes of sin and iniquity, divine mercy, repentance, human rebellion, and the faithfulness of God. These themes highlight the relationship between human shortcomings and God's unwavering character.
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