Definition: For they prophesy falsely unto you in my name: I have not sent them, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 29:9. It’s a really important and often confusing part of the Old Testament, so let’s go through it slowly. What it means in simple terms: This verse says that people who are prophesying about you – meaning they’re talking about you or your future – are actually lying to you. They're saying things that aren’t true and that God didn’t send them. Let’s unpack it a little more: “For they prophesy falsely unto you…” - This is the core of the message. “Prophesying” means speaking or telling about something. These people are speaking about you, and their words aren't actually from God. "...in my name..." - This highlights that these people are acting on behalf of someone else – likely a person who isn’t truly God. “I have not sent them, saith the LORD.” - This is the crucial part. It’s like saying, “God didn’t send them.” It's a powerful statement that emphasizes that these people aren’t legitimate or trustworthy sources of information. What does this mean for us? This verse can be unsettling because it suggests that even those who seem to be speaking for God are actually deceiving us. It encourages us to: Be critical of what others say: Don't blindly accept everything someone says, especially if they’re talking about you. Trust in God's guidance: It reminds us that God is ultimately in control and that we should rely on His word and wisdom. Guard our hearts: We shouldn't be easily misled by false promises or words. In essence, it’s a warning against deception and the importance of relying on God’s truth. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Jeremiah? Give you some examples of how to identify potentially misleading statements? Discuss what this verse might be trying to communicate about human relationships or our faith?