God told Jeremiah that He is mindful of all of our learning experiences. Some lessons require letting things go, while others involve watching thigs grow. Throughout all of them God, is there, watching over us, not as a disinterested observer but as a loving parent.
I Will Turn Their Mourning into Joy
Jeremiah prophesied that Israel would be gathered both physically and spiritually. God would bring them home from Babylon, and He would forgive their sins and renew His covenant with them. In the Book of Mormon, Jesus also connected the gathering of Israel with the renewal of their relationship with God.
A Righteous Branch
Jeremiah prophesied that God would raise up a leader whom he called "a righteous Branch." Joseph had earlier used the same phrase to identify a group of his descendants who would be remembered in the Lord's covenants. As we draw close to the Savior, who is the righteous Branch, He helps us become righteous.
What Burden?
Israelite prophets used the word "burden" to describe some of their messages. But Jeremiah told his people that the Lord didn't want them to use that label anymore. They should simply ask what the Lord had spoken. Setting aside preconceptions and expectations helps us open our hearts to revelation.
With All Thy Heart
Moses promised the children of Israel that even after being scattered for turning away from God, they would find Him again if they sought Him wholeheartedly. Jeremiah echoed this promise to exiles in Babylon. Nephi and Moroni applied the promise to us: God will reveal truth if we seek diligently.
Rest for Your Souls
Jeremiah taught his people that those who follow God will find rest for their souls. Jesus also taught this principle, and it appears throughout the Book of Mormon. We can let go of so many anxieties and troubles when we trust Him and follow His instructions.
The Fountain of Living Waters
Jeremiah twice used the phrase "fountain of living waters" to describe the blessings Israel lost when they turned away from God. Nephi equated this fountain with the tree of life and said that they represent the love of God. Jesus testified that He offers living water to those who are willing to receive it.
Arm of Flesh
Jeremiah gave the people of Judah a warning and a promise. If they rely on humans instead of God, they will stagnate. But if they trust God, they will flourish. Nephi referenced these teachings twice: once in a self-reflective psalm and again as a warning to his future readers.
Before I Formed Thee in the Belly I Knew Thee
Jeremiah foretold the destruction of Jerusalem, reminding the people that they had rejected many prophets who had warned them to repent. Lehi was one of those prophets. One of his descendants taught that Jeremiah prophesied not only of the destruction of Jerusalem but also of the coming of Jesus Christ.
New Heavens
Isaiah foresaw new heavens and a new earth, coupled with a joyful Jerusalem. John the Revelator and Ether saw the same. Ether emphasized the similarities between the old and the new. When God sanctifies something, it is still recognizable but is a holier version of its former self.