Jeremiah 40-42

“Remnant of Judah, the Lord has told you, ‘Do not go to Egypt’” (42:19). After Jerusalem was destroyed, the Babylonians allowed “the poorest of the land” to remain in Judah, under the governor Gedaliah. But after a violent coup, the leader Johanan planned to take survivors and flee to Egypt. Jeremiah urged them to stay. Even under Babylonian rule, God would protect them: “I will build you up and not tear you down; I will plant you and not uproot you” (42:10).

“Do not be afraid ...” (42:11). The ideal place or life is often beyond our reach. But when we are walking with God in obedience, we can thrive wherever He plants us – even under difficult conditions.