Old Testament

Jeremiah 14:9

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the speaker is expressing confusion and desperation, questioning why God seems distant or powerless like a man who is astonished and unable to help.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

Why should you be like a man astonished, like a mighty man who cannot save? Yet you, O LORD, are in the midst of us, and we are called by your name; do not leave us.

KJVKing James Version

Why shouldest thou be as a man astonied, as a mighty man that cannot save? yet thou, O LORD, art in the midst of us, and we are called by thy name; leave us not.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the speaker is expressing confusion and desperation, questioning why God seems distant or powerless like a man who is astonished and unable to help. Despite the dire situation, the speaker acknowledges God's presence among them and their identity as His people. The plea is for God not to abandon them, highlighting their reliance on Him for salvation and support. This reflects a deep faith in God's ability to intervene, even when circumstances appear hopeless. The imagery of a mighty man who cannot save emphasizes the contrast between human limitations and divine power. The speaker's call for God to remain with them underscores the importance of God's presence in their lives, especially in times of trouble. It serves as a reminder that, even in despair, believers can turn to God for help and reassurance, trusting in His faithfulness and strength. Explore related gods.

How to apply Jeremiah 14:9 to your life

In times of trouble, remember that God is always present with you. When feeling overwhelmed or powerless, turn to Him in prayer, acknowledging your need for His strength and guidance. Trust that He will not abandon you, even in your darkest moments.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 14:9 mean?

Jeremiah 14:9 expresses a sense of confusion and desperation, questioning why God seems distant or powerless. The speaker acknowledges God's presence and pleads for Him not to abandon them, highlighting their reliance on Him for help.

What is the significance of being called by God's name in Jeremiah 14:9?

Being called by God's name signifies a special relationship and identity as His people. It emphasizes the importance of God's presence and support in their lives, especially during difficult times.

What does the imagery of a mighty man who cannot save represent in Jeremiah 14:9?

The imagery of a mighty man who cannot save contrasts human limitations with God's divine power. It illustrates the speaker's feelings of helplessness and the need for God's intervention in their situation.

How can I apply the message of Jeremiah 14:9 in my life?

You can apply the message of Jeremiah 14:9 by turning to God in prayer during tough times, acknowledging your need for His strength and guidance. Trust that He is present and will not abandon you, even when you feel overwhelmed.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

The Book of Jeremiah

Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah

The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.

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