The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, of a priestly family in Anathoth, in the land of Benjamin.

The word of the LORD came to me thus:

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you.

“Ah, Lord, GOD!” I said, “I know not how to speak; I am too young.”

But the LORD answered me,

Say not, “I am too young.” To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak. Have no fear before them, because I am with you to deliver you, says the LORD.

Then the LORD extended his hand and touched my mouth, saying, See, I place my words in your mouth!

This day I set you over nations and over kingdoms, to root up and to tear down, to destroy and to demolish, to build and to plant.