Jeremiah 17:17

Jeremiah 17:17 captures a deeply personal plea from the prophet Jeremiah to God amidst intense suffering and opposition. This verse is a poignant expression of a faithful servant seeking divine solace and intervention in a time of national decline and personal distress.

Context

This verse is situated within a chapter that starkly contrasts trusting in human strength versus trusting in the Lord. Jeremiah, often called the "weeping prophet," was tasked with delivering unpopular messages of judgment to Judah, warning them of impending Babylonian exile due to their idolatry and unfaithfulness. As a result, he faced ridicule, persecution, and isolation from his own people and even his family. Feeling vulnerable and exposed, Jeremiah appeals directly to God, whose presence he desires as a source of comfort, not fear, in his "day of evil." His prayer reflects a longing for vindication and reassurance that God is truly with him.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Refuge: Jeremiah implores God not to become a source of dread or dismay, but rather a secure refuge. He seeks protection and deliverance from the very God who also brings judgment upon the unrighteous.
• Unwavering Hope in Adversity: Despite facing immense pressure and a "day of evil" (a period of calamity, distress, and judgment), Jeremiah declares God as his sole hope. This highlights the steadfast nature of true faith even in the bleakest circumstances.
• Personal Plea for Vindication: The verse is a cry for God to act on Jeremiah's behalf, affirming His presence and power against those who oppose His prophet. It underscores the prophet's reliance on God's justice and faithfulness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Be not a terror unto me" uses the Hebrew word makhtah (מַחְתָּה), which can also mean "dismay" or "ruin." Jeremiah is asking God not to be the cause of his downfall or despair, but rather his rescuer. The term "my hope" comes from the Hebrew miqveh (מִקְוֶה), which literally means "a collection" or "a gathering," often referring to a body of water like a reservoir or a spring. This implies a sure, reliable, and abundant source of expectation and confidence, much like God being the "fountain of living waters" for His people.

Related Scriptures

This expression of trust in God during times of trouble resonates with many other scriptures. Similar sentiments are found in Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble," and Nahum 1:7, which states, "The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him." Jeremiah's plea reinforces the biblical truth that God is the ultimate source of security and expectation, especially when all other earthly sources fail.

Practical Application

Jeremiah 17:17 offers profound encouragement for believers today. We all face "days of evil"—moments of personal crisis, societal turmoil, or spiritual attack. This verse reminds us that in such times, our ultimate hope and refuge must be God alone. It encourages us to pray boldly, asking God not to allow our circumstances or even His own judgment to become a source of terror for us, but rather to be our steadfast hope and deliverer. It's a call to cling to God's promises and character, trusting that He is our unfailing source of strength and vindication when the world seems to crumble around us.