Definition: Return, ye backsliding children, [and] I will heal your backslidings. Behold, we come unto thee; for thou [art] the LORD our God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 3:22. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic verse! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying that God is watching over his people and is concerned about their behavior. He's offering forgiveness and healing to those who are straying (backsliding) from the path of righteousness. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Jeremiah 3:22” : This refers to a specific prophecy written by Jeremiah, a prophet for God. It’s a message about the future. “Return, ye backsliding children” : This is the core of the verse. “Backsliding” means to go wrong, to deviate from the right path or moral standards. The word "children" suggests this isn't just a single person, but a group – a whole nation or community. “[and] I will heal your backslidings” : This is God’s promise. He intends to restore them and make things right with him. “Heal your backslidings” means to forgive their sins and return them to the way they should be. What does it mean for us? This verse speaks to a time of serious trouble and potential disaster for Israel (and, by extension, humanity). It’s a warning that God is watching and will intervene if they continue down a wrong path. It's a message about: God’s Watchful Care: He’s not just concerned; he actively keeps an eye on his people. Forgiveness and Redemption: There's hope for reconciliation – a chance to return to the right path. Divine Intervention: God is ready to act, whether it’s through punishment or restoration. Important Context (briefly): This verse comes from a time when Israel was facing a period of great division and rebellion. Jeremiah was writing about the future destruction of the nation and urging them to repent (turn back) before it's too late. In short, this is a message of hope and warning – God is concerned but ultimately offers forgiveness and restoration. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible?