“For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord”- this is the Lord’s declaration-”plans for you to prosper, not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”

-Jeremiah 29:11

In the context of this Scripture, the prophet Jeremiah writes to the Israelites exiled in the land of Babylon. The Israelites loved and honored God, but they often drifted away from Him and worshiped worldly gods and idols. As a result of turning away from God, they were captured by King Nebuchadnezar and exiled from their homeland in Jerusalem to the land of Babylon. 

Although the Isreaelites’ disobedience brought a punishment from the Lord, He continually showed them grace and mercy despite their sinful habits. His plan for the Israelites’ future was greater than any mistake they would ever make. 

This week’s praise is the hope we have in trusting the Lord who holds our future and has plans for us to prosper when we seek Him. 

Similar to the Israelites, we may drift away from God and idolize other things in our life. It is easy to become distracted by sports, friends, jobs, school, and disregard our relationship with God. Although God is just and we will face consequences when we put other things before Him, He promises to give us a hopeful and prosperous future when we pursue and trust Him. 

This week, let us rest in knowing that the Lord holds our future in His hands and desires to bless us as we follow after Him. Even when we stray from Him or become distracted, like the Israelites, be assured that He will always treat our mess-ups with grace and mercy when we turn back to Him. Let us feel determined to draw near to the Lord so His promises for our future may bless us. 

Dear God, thank You for restoring the Israelites future despite their disobedience towards You. Thank You for promising to give us a future of hope and prosperity. Help us to walk in Your Way and trust Your plans for us.