Commentaries and Other Bible Study Helps - Prayer Tents - Prayer Tents

1:17 God gives Jeremiah four directives. He must dress . . . for work, which literally means (see ESV footnote) "gird up your loins" or "tie up your robe so your legs are free for work." He must arise and thus be ready for his work. He must say only what God commands him to say (v. 7). He must not be dismayed by them (his foes) as he works, or God will give him over to their terrors.

1:18 Jeremiah should not fear, because God makes him a fortified city, an iron pillar, and bronze walls that can withstand every possible assault from the different segments of the population. He is invincible as long as he does God's work. God's sovereignty is his comfort. the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests, and the people of the land. These groups provide the book's major and minor characters.

1:19 but they shall not prevail against you. God promises to protect and sustain Jeremiah through persecution. God's presence (for I am with you) makes him like a fortified city (v. 18), able to endure what will follow, and the calling, word, and presence of God keep him safe.