Jeremiah 29

“Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce” (v5). Jeremiah’s prophecy came to pass, and the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem and took many people into exile. But God told His people not to be bitter about their exile. Instead, “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 find your welfare” (v7). They could find God’s blessing even in Babylon.

“For I know the plans I have for you … to give you a future and a hope” (v11). Israel’s wellbeing didn’t depend on where they lived, but on their willingness to trust the Lord and obey Him.