4The 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 apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.”
6“O Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!”
7The Lord replied, “Don’t say, ‘I’m too young,’ for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you.
8And don’t be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the Lord, have spoken!”
9Then the Lord reached out and touched my mouth and said, “Look, I have put my words in your mouth!
10Today I appoint you to stand up against nations and kingdoms. Some you must uproot and tear down, destroy and overthrow. Others you must build up and plant.”
