Jeremiah 15:11-21

11The Lord replied, “I will take care of you, Jeremiah. Your enemies will ask you to plead on their behalf in times of trouble and distress.

12Can a man break a bar of iron from the north, or a bar of bronze?

13At no cost to them, I will hand over your wealth and treasures as plunder to your enemies, for sin runs rampant in your land.

14I will tell your enemies to take you as captives to a foreign land. For my anger blazes like a fire that will burn forever.”

15Then I said, “Lord, you know what’s happening to me. Please step in and help me. Punish my persecutors! Please give me time; don’t let me die young. It’s for your sake that I am suffering.

16When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, O Lord God of Heaven’s Armies.

17I never joined the people in their merry feasts. I sat alone because your hand was on me. I was filled with indignation at their sins.

18Why then does my suffering continue? Why is my wound so incurable? Your help seems as uncertain as a seasonal brook, like a spring that has gone dry.”

19This is how the Lord responds: “If you return to me, I will restore you so you can continue to serve me. If you speak good words rather than worthless ones, you will be my spokesman. You must influence them; do not let them influence you!

20They will fight against you like an attacking army, but I will make you as secure as a fortified wall of bronze. They will not conquer you, for I am with you to protect and rescue you. I, the Lord, have spoken!

21Yes, I will certainly keep you safe from these wicked men. I will rescue you from their cruel hands.”