What does "fear and tremble" in Jeremiah 33:9 reveal about God's power?

◄ God's power in Jeremiah 33:9? ►

Verse in Focus

“ ‘They will fear and tremble at all the good and all the peace I provide for it.’ ” (Jeremiah 33:9)

Defining “Fear and Tremble”

• Not cringing terror, but overwhelming awe

• A heart-level recognition that God’s power is absolute, personal, and inescapably real

• An emotion provoked not by judgment here, but by abundant goodness so astounding it shakes observers to their core

• Echoes earlier covenant language: “Fear the LORD your God and serve Him” (Deuteronomy 10:20)

What It Reveals about God’s Power

1. Power That Turns Ruins into Renown

• Jerusalem, once desolate (Jeremiah 33:4-5), becomes “renown, joy, praise and glory” by God’s hand.

• Transformation so dramatic that nations cannot dismiss it—proof that His power is creative, restorative, and public.

2. Power Displayed Through Goodness

• “All the good and all the peace” (shalom) are the very sources of fear.

• His blessings are not mild; they are so lavish they stun witnesses (Psalm 126:2-3).

3. Power That Commands Universal Attention

• “All the nations of the earth” hear and react (cf. Exodus 15:14-16—nations tremble after the Red Sea).

• God’s reach is global; His acts in one city broadcast His supremacy everywhere (Isaiah 49:6).

4. Power That Produces Reverent Submission

• Genuine fear leads to acknowledgment, not rebellion (Jeremiah 32:40; Philippians 2:12-13).

• The trembling is a gateway to worship: “Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth” (Psalm 96:9).

5. Power Rooted in Covenant Faithfulness

• The promise arises from the “everlasting covenant” (Jeremiah 32:40).

• God’s power is not arbitrary; it flows from His unwavering commitment to His word (Numbers 23:19).

Implications for Believers Today

• Expect God’s goodness to be so evident it leaves the watching world speechless.

• Let His past restorations fuel present confidence—no ruin is beyond His reach (Ephesians 3:20).

• Embrace a holy awe that balances intimacy with reverence; familiarity must never dilute wonder (Hebrews 12:28-29).

• Live as public evidence of His transformative power—so that others “fear and tremble” at what He has done in you (Acts 2:43).