Old Testament
Jeremiah 2:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Your own wickedness will correct you, and your backslidings will reprove you. Understand and see that it is an evil and bitter thing that you have forsaken the LORD your God, and that my fear is not in you," says the Lord GOD of hosts.
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Thine own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee: know therefore and see that it is an evil thing and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, and that my fear is not in thee, saith the Lord GOD of hosts.
What Jeremiah 2:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing the people of Israel, highlighting the consequences of their actions. Their own wickedness and turning away from God will lead to their downfall. The phrase 'your backslidings will reprove you' suggests that their past mistakes will serve as a reminder of their need for God. God emphasizes that abandoning Him is not just a mistake but a deeply harmful choice, leading to bitterness and evil in their lives. The lack of reverence for God is a serious issue, indicating a disconnect in their relationship with Him. This verse serves as a wake-up call for the people to recognize the gravity of their situation and the importance of returning to God, who desires a relationship with them.
How to apply Jeremiah 2:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and recognize the consequences of turning away from God. It reminds us to maintain a healthy fear and respect for God, ensuring we do not stray from our faith. Regular self-examination can help us stay aligned with God's will.
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 2:19 mean?
Jeremiah 2:19 means that the consequences of one's own sinful actions will serve as a correction. It emphasizes that turning away from God leads to bitterness and evil in life, highlighting the importance of maintaining a relationship with Him.
What is the meaning of 'backslidings' in Jeremiah 2:19?
In Jeremiah 2:19, 'backslidings' refers to the act of turning away from God and returning to sinful behaviors. It indicates a regression in faith and a reminder of the need for repentance and realignment with God's will.
How does Jeremiah 2:19 apply to our lives today?
Jeremiah 2:19 encourages self-reflection on our actions and their consequences. It reminds us to maintain respect for God and avoid straying from our faith, highlighting the need for regular self-examination.
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