4. The lord gave me this message:
5. “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.Before you were born I set you apartand appointed you as my prophet to the nations.”
6. “O Sovereign lord,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!”
7. The lord replied, “Don’t say, ‘I’m too young,’ for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you.
8. And don’t be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the lord, have spoken!”
9. Then the lord reached out and touched my mouth and said,“Look, I have put my words in your mouth!
10. Today I appoint you to stand upagainst nations and kingdoms.Some you must uproot and tear down,destroy and overthrow.Others you must build upand plant.”