Scripture:
Jeremiah 29:11
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"
Reflection:
Esther's great-grandfather likely heard Jeremiah's words to the exiles in Babylon: build houses, plant gardens, multiply, and pray for the welfare of the city. Her family chose to stay in Persia even after they could return to Jerusalem. It seemed like they were settling for less than God's best, yet God was positioning them for His greater purpose. Sometimes what looks like exile is actually preparation. The season you're in right now, even if it feels like you're far from where you thought you'd be, may be exactly where God needs you to build, plant, and multiply for future generations. Don't waste your "Babylon" waiting to get to your "Jerusalem." God has kingdom work for you right where you are.
Prayer:
Father, forgive me for the times I've viewed my current season as wasted time or a detour from Your plan. Help me see that You are sovereign over every season of my life. Give me the faith to build, plant, and multiply right where I am, even when it doesn't look like what I expected. Show me how to invest in this community and prepare the way for future generations. Thank You that no season is wasted in Your hands. Amen.
Action:
Identify one way you've been "waiting" for a different season before fully engaging. Choose to invest in your current reality this week: serve in your neighborhood, deepen a local relationship, or commit to a ministry opportunity you've been putting off. Build where you are.
Jeremiah 29:11
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"
Reflection:
Esther's great-grandfather likely heard Jeremiah's words to the exiles in Babylon: build houses, plant gardens, multiply, and pray for the welfare of the city. Her family chose to stay in Persia even after they could return to Jerusalem. It seemed like they were settling for less than God's best, yet God was positioning them for His greater purpose. Sometimes what looks like exile is actually preparation. The season you're in right now, even if it feels like you're far from where you thought you'd be, may be exactly where God needs you to build, plant, and multiply for future generations. Don't waste your "Babylon" waiting to get to your "Jerusalem." God has kingdom work for you right where you are.
Prayer:
Father, forgive me for the times I've viewed my current season as wasted time or a detour from Your plan. Help me see that You are sovereign over every season of my life. Give me the faith to build, plant, and multiply right where I am, even when it doesn't look like what I expected. Show me how to invest in this community and prepare the way for future generations. Thank You that no season is wasted in Your hands. Amen.
Action:
Identify one way you've been "waiting" for a different season before fully engaging. Choose to invest in your current reality this week: serve in your neighborhood, deepen a local relationship, or commit to a ministry opportunity you've been putting off. Build where you are.
Posted in Daily Devotionals
No Comments