Jer 1:4-10

4The word of the LORD came to me:

5Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,

before you were born I dedicated you,

a prophet to the nations I appointed you.^{* c}

6“Ah, Lord GOD!” I said,

“I do not know how to speak. I am too young!”^*

7But the LORD answered me,

Do not say, “I am too young.”

To whomever I send you, you shall go;

whatever I command you, you shall speak.

8Do not be afraid of them,

for I am with you to deliver you—oracle of the LORD.

9Then the LORD extended his hand and touched my mouth, saying to me,

See, I place my words in your mouth!^d

10Today I appoint you

over nations and over kingdoms,

To uproot and to tear down,

to destroy and to demolish,

to build and to plant.