PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Jeremiah 29-30
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you.” (Jeremiah 29:7)
Jeremiah is asking the people to stop fighting their exile in Babylon.
Resistance is futile, rather humbly serve the people you live among.
As Jesus followers, we are also exiles in the world (1 Peter 2:11).
But we are not to organize a rebellion, nor hide in our holy huddles.
We are called to live in the world, but not to live like the world.
We are urged to bring God’s grace, mercy and peace wherever we go.
We are called to seek the peace and prosperity of our communities.
To “live such good lives” (1 Peter 2:12) that those who do not follow Jesus notice.
As we seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, the Lord will provide what we need.
God’s plans are not just for ME; God is bringing hope and a future to all.
But they cannot know about it, or experience it, unless we show them.
Jesus sent his disciples to different towns to bring His peace (Luke 10:1,5).
Jesus has sent us where we are too, to seek the blessing of our neighbours.
Am I living for myself, or huddling in my church, or blessing my community for Jesus?
PRAYER
Lord, every person I meet today is someone that you have plans for too. Help me to join you in caring about them, and somehow seeking their peace and prosperity.
“seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” It is like a lifetime of service: “When seventy years are completed”. And God has good intent in mind as the prophet also says: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God’s intent maybe to discipline me and his people – but He has my/our best and eternal interest in mind. Lord, help me to see the plans you have for me – each day as each day occurs – that I may live for you! Help me to impact others with the love you have for them!
Stop.
Look.
Listen.
The refrain heard throughout is – This is what the Lord says. The Restorer. The One we need to listen to for He is my God. He is still at work accomplishing what He desires – that the people acknowledge Him and live for Jesus for we are His people and He is our God. Live for Him and His purpose in my life.
1
Seek ye first the kingdom of God
And His righteousness;
And all these things shall be added unto you.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!
2
Ask, and it shall be given unto you;
Seek, and you shall find.
Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!
3
Man shall not live by bread alone,
But by every word
That proceeds out from the mouth of God.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!