Old Testament
Jeremiah 18:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But they will say, 'It's no use. We're going to follow our own plans, and each of us will keep doing whatever our stubborn, evil hearts desire.'
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And they said, There is no hope: but we will walk after our own devices, and we will every one do the imagination of his evil heart.
What Jeremiah 18:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 18:12, the people express a sense of hopelessness and a determination to pursue their own desires, despite the warnings from God. They reject the idea of change and choose to follow their own plans, which are driven by their stubborn and sinful hearts. This reflects a common human tendency to resist guidance and cling to personal desires, even when they lead to negative consequences. The verse highlights the futility of such a mindset, as it leads to a path of destruction rather than fulfillment. The people's refusal to listen to God's call for repentance illustrates the struggle between divine guidance and human inclination towards self-centeredness. Ultimately, this passage serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our hearts with God's will rather than our own flawed intentions.
How to apply Jeremiah 18:12 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and consider whether we are following our own plans or seeking God's guidance. It challenges us to resist the temptation to act on our selfish desires and instead align our hearts with God's will, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: The Potter's House (Jeremiah 18:1–12)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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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 18:12 mean?
Jeremiah 18:12 shows the people's rejection of God's guidance, as they choose to follow their own stubborn desires instead. It highlights a sense of hopelessness and the consequences of ignoring divine warnings.
What is the significance of following our own plans in Jeremiah 18:12?
In Jeremiah 18:12, following our own plans signifies a refusal to listen to God and a preference for personal desires over divine guidance. This choice often leads to negative outcomes and a path away from fulfillment.
What does the phrase 'evil hearts' refer to in Jeremiah 18:12?
The phrase 'evil hearts' in Jeremiah 18:12 refers to the sinful and stubborn inclinations of the people, indicating their tendency to prioritize selfish desires over God's will.
How does Jeremiah 18:12 relate to human nature?
Jeremiah 18:12 reflects a common aspect of human nature, where individuals often resist guidance and choose their own paths, even when those choices lead to harm or destruction.
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