Scripture:
“This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. Also, 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.”
– Jeremiah 29:4-7 (NIV)
Are you living your best life, or have you put life on hold because you are waiting for circumstances to improve? As the Lord carried the Israelites into exile for 70 years, he told them to move ahead with their lives, prosper in their place of exile and pray to the Lord. They were encouraged to not give up because of fear or uncertainty, but to adjust, keep living, and pray for peace and prosperity in their place of exile. What will you miss if you just mark time? How are you going to experience God if you don’t step out in faith? By persevering you will have the opportunity to see God at work. Then you can rejoice in all circumstances.
Prayer:
Father, I want to live for Your kingdom. Help me to bloom where I have been planted. May I live with joy and a desire to follow You and bless others? Allow me to hear Your voice, experience Your presence, and know all that You call me to do. Help me remember that Your plans and timing are perfect. Thank You for Your promise of hope and a future.