4 The word of the Lord came to me:
5 I chose you before I formed you in the womb;I set you apart before you were born. I appointed you a prophet to the nations.
6 But I protested, “Oh no, Lord, God! Look, I don’t know how to speak since I am only a youth.”
7 Then the Lord said to me:Do not say, “I am only a youth,” for you will go to everyone I send you toand speak whatever I tell you.
8 Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be with you to deliver you. This is the Lord’s declaration.
9 Then the Lord reached out His hand, touched my mouth, and told me:I have now filled your mouth with My words.
10 See, I have appointed you todayover nations and kingdomsto uproot and tear down,to destroy and demolish, to build and plant.