SUMMARY: Plans
OVERVIEW: Jeremiah tells the exiles in Babylon to get settled and to faithfully serve God where they are. They will be in Babylon for seventy years, so they should build homes and work for the peace and prosperity of the city. Jeremiah wants them to know that God has not forgotten them and that he has plans for them. If the exiles look for God, they will find him.
BIG IDEA: Be faithful where the Lord has you, for he has not forgotten you.
KEY VERSE: Jeremiah 29:7 (God to Israeli exiles)
And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
You will end up in places and situations where you feel lost and out of sorts. It may be a job or school or even within your own family. Wherever you are, remember that I love you and am with you. I have not forgotten you. I never have, and I never will. As your heavenly Father, I will provide all you need. That’s my commitment to you, so you can walk with me and trust me.
A practical way to do that is to be faithful where you are. It’s OK to imagine living somewhere else talking about it with a select few, but pray for and serve those in your midst. You are where you are for a reason. Ignore those who whine and complain. While you can’t make them go away, don’t be consumed by their negativity. I am the one you can count on, so listen to and focus on me. Share my truths with others to comfort and encourage them.
NEXT STEP
Thank God for his presence and activity in your life today. When you’re overwhelmed or confused, remember that God has not left you. He is always with you and is at work in your life and your situation. You are not alone.
LYRIC VIDEO