4
The word of the LORD came to me:
5
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.
6
“Ah, Lord GOD!” I said,
“I do not know how to speak. I am too young!”
7
But 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.
8
Do not be afraid of them,
for I am with you to deliver you — oracle of the LORD.
9
Then the LORD extended his hand and touched my mouth, saying to me,
See, I place my words in your mouth!
10
Today I appoint you
over nations and over kingdoms,
To uproot and to tear down,
to destroy and to demolish,
to build and to plant.