“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.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
The Israelites were exiled for 70 years to live in Babylon due to their disobedience to God and their idolatry. During this time, they experienced difficulties and challenges. Doubt and discouragement were realities they faced daily. But God was faithful and was with them.
“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.‘ Yes, this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have. They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the Lord.
This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place.”‘ Jeremiah 29: 4-10 NIV
In our world today, we face numerous consequences. Some from our own choices, and some simply because we live in a fallen world.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NIV
In the 16th chapter of the book of John, Jesus shares with His disciples about His soon-coming death. He explains that they cannot go with Him now, but later they will. He goes on to say the above verse, in which offers comfort and peace through Him.
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