Jeremiah 4:28Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Let the earth mourn for these reasons. It is fitting for the creation to understand the consequences of human indifference. For I have declared my will and will not withdraw it. This should not be seen as an empty warning; the actions will indeed come to pass. Since I have predicted numerous times, and in humanity, I did not bring the prophecies to completion, thus I affirm that now it will not occur differently; as I have stated, so shall it be accomplished.

The Lord declares that while the entire earth lies desolate, I will not bring about total destruction. The earth shall lament, and the heavens above will grieve because of My decree. My plans are set, and I have not changed My mind or turned away from them. God’s mercy is intertwined with His anger: though the earth is in ruins, there is still hope for understanding His compassion. The heavens will show a somber visage, and the ground will mourn, for the Lord's determination has reached its fulfillment; yet He has not withdrawn what He has decreed. The true nature of divine repentance is seen when a prior decision is revoked and the anger that was ignited does not cease. He issued a warning to Jonah; however, the impending doom hovering over him was averted through heartfelt tears and sincere cries.

Let the earth mourn and the heavens be shrouded in darkness above, for I have declared this; the creation aligns with the Creator. I will not change my mind and “I will not change my mind.” The phrase “I will not change my mind” is expressed from a human perspective, indicating an intent to punish; yet God remains unaffected. “I will strive and will not waver,” meaning I will persist in my efforts. The nature of that resolve is revealed in that, fearing the cavalry and the marksmen, all scattered in fear; some fled to the mountains, others to the groves, and many abandoned the cities to occupy the heights. The Prophet then addresses Jerusalem.