Facing an Exile Jeremiah 29:11-13 – “For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. You will call to Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” In this section, God is speaking to the Jews before the period of exile. He is seeking to assure them that He is not unaware or unable but is ready and willing to receive them when they repent and turn back to Him. It is interesting that, though He could have prevented this, He allowed the exile as part of a greater plan – to discipline His people. Even when we face difficult times, we need to remind ourselves (bring them to our minds) that God’s promises are always true and trustworthy. Regardless of your (and my) circumstances, our God remains fully in control and His desires are for our best. He is not a God who gives up or is ever incapable of providing the resources needed. What “exile” are you facing today? Are your bills greater than your income? Does the distance in a close family relationship seem too great to be overcome? Are there issues in your past that haunt you day and night? Remember the truth of these verses – God’s plans for you include “a future and a hope.” When you can’t see that truth with your eyes, ask God for the faith to see it with your heart!
Posted on: Tue, 10 Sep 2013 15:23:06 +0000