Daily Encouragementنموونە

This is a quotation from the letter which Jeremiah sent to the exiles in Babylon. It instructed them to settle down there, since seventy years would pass before the Lord would open the way for them to return to their own land. That day would come as part of God’s plan.

God’s plans for his people are always gracious plans. As he directed the exiles to settle down in Babylon, he assured them of his plans for their eventual return. He is “the God of hope,” (Rom. 15:13) and for those who trust in him “the future is as bright as the promises of God.”

God’s gracious purpose does not exclude the punishing of his people. The whole ministry of Jeremiah proclaims this fact, and the exile to Babylon spells it out in actual historical events. The Lord disciplines those whom he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.” (Heb. 12:6)

God’s plans for his people call for their wholehearted consecration to him. This is the proper response to his discipline. “Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jer. 29:12)