Take the city

The Babylonian army attacked Jerusalem and took many back to idol-worshipping, corrupt Babylon as prisoners. It would have been understandable that the Israelites would feel sorry for themselves and expect God to free them.

But that wasn't God's plan. He asked them to care for Babylon and get involved with its society. He even instructed them to pray for the city (see Jeremiah 29:4-7). It must have been hard for them, but God knew what he was doing. He told the captives: 'For I know the plans I have for you...plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future' (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). While they were waiting for him to fix everything, God wanted them to learn to make the best of their situation. Imagine what their pagan neighbours must have thought, 'Wow, these prisoners aren't sitting around moaning about their situation; instead they're getting involved and trying to make our life better, too.' It must have made the Babylonians stop and think about this God these prisoners were serving.

It can be so frustrating if we're waiting for God to help us out of a situation we hate. But let's not avoid it - while we're waiting, let's try to have a positive impact on those around us. It may be the only chance they get to see God at work.



So what now? Is there somewhere you really don't enjoy going to? Next time, arrive there 15 minutes early and pray for the place. 'Take the city' for God.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Rise up...and take the city' Jeremiah 29:7 NIV
— SOULFOOD —

Neh 11-13, Mark 12:28-44, Ps 78:17-31, Pro 23:26-28