Jeremiah 29  One of the most well known verses from this book is found here, part of Jeremiah's letter to the Jews in exile.  They went to Babylon.. sent there by the Lord ( 29:4)  The Lord commands them to:

1. "Build houses and live in them; and plant gardens, and eat their produce." ( v5)  This will be their home for 70 years.  They needed to settle in and believe what the Lord has said.

2."And seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare." (v7)  Not only were they to make Babylon their home, but they were to pray for the city!  They were commissioned to be peacemakers in the heart of the enemy's capital.

3. They were also to have hope for the future. " For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."  Here is the Lord's promise - He will take them back to Israel.  He will restore them, not only to their homeland, but to Himself.

We are not sent into exile.. at least not at this time.. but we are also "aliens and strangers".. for our home is in Heaven.  Jeremiah's words are just as important to us, wherever we are.. May we;

Settle in where the Lord has sent us and believe His Word.
Pray for and seek the peace of the city in which we live.
Keep our eyes on our Hope - an Eternal City - our true Homeland.


Jeremiah's letter also confronts the false prophets.  Even in captivity they are speaking their lies.
The Lord did not send them.
The Lord Himself is a witness to their lies.
The Lord will punish those who have "preached rebellion".
Truth is vital!  God will defend His Word from those will in any way misuse it!


Father in Heaven, thank You for the Word that leads us into Your paths of righteousness. Thank You that You do have a plan for each of us - a good plan for those who belong to You and walk in faith. Thank You that when we seek You with all our heart, You let us find You!  Thank You for the hope we have in Christ Jesus.  No matter how long our days on this earth, no matter where our journey may take us.. we have You with us.. Even as You promised Joshua, " Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." ( Joshua 1:9)  You are with me, here and now.. in my uncertain future( as far as this world is concerned).. and in my eternal future.. forever in Your home. Hallelujah!  Thank You Lord. Amen!