Jeremiah 32:19

the One great in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are on all the ways of the sons of men, to reward each one according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds.

Study Bible

great in counsel
The phrase "great in counsel" underscores God's infinite wisdom and understanding. The Hebrew word for "counsel" is "עֵצָה" (etsah), which conveys the idea of purpose, plan, or advice. In the context of Jeremiah, this highlights God's ability to devise plans that are beyond human comprehension. Historically, this reflects the period when Judah was under threat from Babylon, and God's counsel was crucial for the survival and future restoration of His people. This phrase reassures believers of God's perfect guidance in their lives, encouraging trust in His divine plans.

and mighty in deed
The phrase "and mighty in deed" emphasizes God's power and ability to act. The Hebrew word for "mighty" is "גָּדוֹל" (gadol), meaning great or powerful, and "deed" is "מַעֲשֶׂה" (ma'aseh), referring to work or action. This combination illustrates God's active involvement in the world, not just as a planner but as one who executes His will with strength. In the historical context of Jeremiah, this was a reminder of God's past acts of deliverance and a promise of future intervention. For believers, it is a call to recognize God's ongoing work in their lives and the world.

whose eyes are on all the ways of the sons of men
This phrase speaks to God's omniscience and His attentive observation of humanity. The Hebrew word for "eyes" is "עֵינַיִם" (einaim), symbolizing perception and awareness. "Ways" is "דֶּרֶךְ" (derekh), indicating paths or conduct. This suggests that God is fully aware of human actions and intentions. In Jeremiah's time, this was a warning to the people of Judah that their deeds were not hidden from God. For contemporary believers, it serves as both a comfort and a caution, knowing that God sees all and judges righteously.

to reward each one according to his ways
The phrase "to reward each one according to his ways" highlights the principle of divine justice. The Hebrew word for "reward" is "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to give or bestow. This reflects the biblical concept of retribution, where God gives to each person based on their actions. In the context of Jeremiah, it was a message of accountability for the people of Judah. For believers today, it is a reminder of the moral order established by God, encouraging righteous living and faithfulness, knowing that God is just and fair in His judgments.

and the fruit of his deeds
The phrase "and the fruit of his deeds" further emphasizes the outcome of one's actions. The Hebrew word for "fruit" is "פְּרִי" (peri), symbolizing results or consequences. "Deeds" is again "מַעֲשֶׂה" (ma'aseh), reinforcing the idea of actions. This suggests that actions have tangible outcomes, both positive and negative. In Jeremiah's context, it was a call to repentance and a warning of the consequences of disobedience. For believers, it serves as an encouragement to bear good fruit through righteous actions, knowing that God honors and rewards such efforts.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He is known for his prophecies of judgment and restoration.

2. God
The central figure in this verse, described as "great in counsel and mighty in deed," highlighting His wisdom and power.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, facing impending judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry.

4. Babylonian Siege
The historical context of this chapter, where Jerusalem is under siege by the Babylonians, leading to the eventual exile of the people.

5. The Sons of Men
Refers to humanity in general, emphasizing God's omniscience and His ability to see and judge all human actions.

Teaching Points

God's Omniscience and Omnipresence
God sees all actions and knows all hearts. We should live with the awareness that nothing is hidden from Him.

Divine Justice
God rewards each person according to their deeds. This should encourage us to live righteously and align our actions with His will.

Wisdom in Counsel
God is "great in counsel," meaning His guidance is perfect. We should seek His wisdom in all decisions and trust His plans for our lives.

Mighty in Deed
God's power is unmatched, and He is capable of accomplishing His purposes. We can trust in His ability to act on our behalf.

Accountability
Understanding that God evaluates our actions should lead us to self-examination and repentance, striving to bear good fruit in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's omniscience affect the way you live your daily life?

2. In what ways can you seek God's counsel more actively in your decision-making processes?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's mighty deeds in your life. How did it strengthen your faith?

4. How can the principle of divine justice, as seen in Jeremiah 32:19, motivate you to pursue righteousness?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that the "fruit of your deeds" aligns with God's will, and how can you encourage others to do the same?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 5:21
This verse speaks of the ways of man being before the eyes of the Lord, similar to Jeremiah 32:19, emphasizing God's omniscience.

Romans 2:6
Paul echoes the principle of God rewarding each according to their deeds, reinforcing the message of divine justice found in Jeremiah 32:19.

Psalm 33:13-15
These verses describe God looking down from heaven and observing all mankind, aligning with the theme of God's watchful eyes in Jeremiah 32:19.