Definition: But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for [your] pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the LORD’S flock is carried away captive.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 13:17. It’s a really powerful and somewhat dramatic statement about God’s feelings and what happens when people don’t listen to Him. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: God is deeply saddened by the things happening in the world – specifically, by the growing pride and selfishness of people. He's feeling a profound sense of loss and distress because His followers (the Israelites) are drifting away from Him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "But if ye will not hear it..." This is a warning. It’s saying that God isn’t just passively observing things; He's reacting to our choices. "...my soul shall weep in secret places." This means God is feeling deeply distressed and heartbroken. “Secret places” are like hidden corners, or places where he feels most vulnerable. It’s not a loud, obvious cry, but a quiet, internal sadness. "for [your] pride..." This is the core of the verse. “Pride” in this context isn't just about vanity or arrogance. It refers to a deep-seated belief that you are better than others, and that you deserve special treatment. It’s a feeling of superiority and entitlement. "...and mine eye shall weep sore..." This is a metaphor for God's intense anger and sorrow. “Mine eye” represents God’s divine judgment or power. "...and run down with tears, because the LORD’s flock is carried away captive." This is the most important part. “The Lord’s flock” refers to the Israelites – their community, their faith, and their loyalty to God. “Carried away captive” means they are being pulled away from God, lost, and disillusioned. Tears – a lot of them – are pouring out because God is so grieved by this happening. In simpler terms: God is very worried about people becoming selfish, proud, and disconnected from Him. He’s feeling deeply sad and heartbroken because His followers are straying away from what's right and true. It's a warning to us – to stop focusing on our own desires and selfishness, and instead turn to God for guidance and love. Why is this important? This verse reminds us that God is watching over us and cares deeply about our relationship with Him. It’s a call to repentance - to stop being proud and return to the path of righteousness. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse in more detail? Relate it to a specific story or event from scripture? Discuss what this verse might mean for us today, considering our own lives?