Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 42 - Verse 11

Within this verse, the Lord is offering comfort and assurance to the people of Israel who are facing the threat of the powerful king of Babylon. The message is clear - despite the fear and anxiety that the people may feel towards this formidable ruler, they must not be afraid. The Lord promises to be with them, to protect and deliver them from any harm that the king may seek to bring upon them. This verse serves as a reminder to the people that they are not alone in their struggles and that their faith in the Lord will ultimately lead them to safety and salvation. It is a message of hope and encouragement, encouraging the people to trust in the Lord's providence and protection even in the face of great adversity.

Within this verse, there is a strong theological interpretation regarding fear and trust in the midst of daunting circumstances. The King of Babylon represented a powerful and intimidating force that evoked fear in the hearts of the people. However, the Lord instructs the people not to be afraid of this earthly king, despite the very real threat he posed. This serves as a reminder that our trust and confidence should ultimately be placed in God, who promises to be with us, save us, and deliver us from our enemies. The word "afraid" is used multiple times in this verse, emphasizing the importance of overcoming fear through faith in God's protection and deliverance. By turning to the Lord in times of fear and uncertainty, we can find strength and courage to face any challenges that come our way, knowing that He is our ultimate source of security and salvation.