Text: Jeremiah 10:23-25
OT Text Referred to: Proverbs 20:24
Subject: divine sovereignty over human steps
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Allusion
Connection Method(s): None
Significance: Jeremiah 10:23 and Proverbs 20:24 both employ the vocabulary of דֶּרֶךְ (derekh, "way/path") and צַעַד (tsa'ad, "step") to affirm that human beings do not ultimately control their own course. Proverbs states this as a general wisdom principle — "A man's steps are from the LORD" — while Jeremiah applies it as a prophetic confession within a specific crisis: because Judah's path is not self-determined, Jeremiah can appeal to God for measured correction (v. 24) rather than annihilating wrath (v. 25). The broader context of Jeremiah 10:23-25 thus transforms a sapiential observation into a basis for intercessory prayer, moving from acknowledgment of divine sovereignty to a plea that God direct His wrath toward the pagan nations rather than consuming His own people.