Old Testament
Jeremiah 14:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
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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.
What Jeremiah 14:9 means
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.
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
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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 14:9 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.
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