Old Testament

New Testament

Jeremiah 15:7-20 New International Version Anglicized (NIVUK)

7. I will winnow them with a winnowing forkat the city gates of the land.I will bring bereavement and destruction on my people,for they have not changed their ways.

8. I will make their widows more numerousthan the sand of the sea.At midday I will bring a destroyeragainst the mothers of their young men;suddenly I will bring down on themanguish and terror.

9. The mother of seven will grow faintand breathe her last.Her sun will set while it is still day;she will be disgraced and humiliated.I will put the survivors to the swordbefore their enemies,’declares the Lord.

10. Alas, my mother, that you gave me birth,a man with whom the whole land strives and contends!I have neither lent nor borrowed,yet everyone curses me.

11. The Lord said,‘Surely I will deliver you for a good purpose;surely I will make your enemies plead with youin times of disaster and times of distress.

12. ‘Can a man break iron –iron from the north – or bronze?

13. ‘Your wealth and your treasuresI will give as plunder, without charge,because of all your sinsthroughout your country.

14. I will enslave you to your enemiesin a land you do not know,for my anger will kindle a firethat will burn against you.’

15. Lord, you understand;remember me and care for me.Avenge me on my persecutors.You are long-suffering – do not take me away;think of how I suffer reproach for your sake.

16. When your words came, I ate them;they were my joy and my heart’s delight,for I bear your name,Lord God Almighty.

17. I never sat in the company of revellers,never made merry with them;I sat alone because your hand was on meand you had filled me with indignation.

18. Why is my pain unendingand my wound grievous and incurable?You are to me like a deceptive brook,like a spring that fails.

19. Therefore this is what the Lord says:‘If you repent, I will restore youthat you may serve me;if you utter worthy, not worthless, words,you will be my spokesman.Let this people turn to you,but you must not turn to them.

20. I will make you a wall to this people,a fortified wall of bronze;they will fight against youbut will not overcome you,for I am with youto rescue and save you,’declares the Lord.

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