Seek Your City's GoodSýnishorn

How to act in a foreign place

“Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon:… 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.” (Jeremiah 29:4-7)

The people of Israel had received the land of Canaan as their dwelling place, as God had promised their forefathers. But since they repeatedly turned away from the Lord God, He expelled them from their land. They were taken captive by the Babylonians and forced to live far from home without any hope of returning soon. God told them the exile would last 70 years! So, how should they act in this foreign country?

We can read God’s instructions in Jeremiah 29. The people are to do the ordinary things that need to be done, like building houses and planting gardens. Moreover, they are to “seek the welfare of the city” to where they have been sent. Instead of rebelling or completely isolating themselves, they should pray for the people who took them into exile and have a constructive attitude. They must live in Babylon for decades and should spend their time well. Seeking the good of the city will also benefit them.

In a way, every believer lives away from his real home in heaven, but instead of withdrawing from society, we are to seek its peace and welfare as long as we live here on earth.

What is your attitude towards your city and country?