occupy

Jun 14

“But 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…. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Jeremiah 29:7,11 ESV

Wherever you find yourself today, seek the best for those around you.

In the book of Jeremiah, Israel had been exiled to Babylon due to their repetitive idolatry. During this time, however, God exhorts them to settle down, build houses, and seek the welfare of the city.

The New Testament often speaks to the Christian life as one of exile. Much like Israel, we are called to faithfully occupy until the return of Christ. God’s thoughts are continually towards us, and he has a plan for our eternal good. While this very popular scripture was not written to us specifically, God’s promise remains unchanging. Perhaps there is still an invitation, a freedom to gain as we loosen our grip on our own lives and our own comfort and turn our focus toward others.

How do we respond?

Address the culture through the eyes of the great commission. We are to live unto the Lord and bring others to know His love. Scatter the good seed, proclaim the good news and seek out ways to be a blessing. As Christ commanded all who choose to follow him, ‘Go forth and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit’ (Mt 28:19).

Befriend your trials— don’t waste them. With God on your side, you can trust everything you’re going through has purpose. Be encouraged to rely on His strength, not yours. The Lord knows your works and says, ‘Keep going and stay patient for I am coming soon!’ (Rev 3:8)

Remain steadfast. Keep the Word of God and honor his name as you faithfully follow Christ and build His kingdom.

The mission becomes easier when we take our eyes off of ourselves and commit to doing what is right while remaining true to our identity as children of God. And the one who places their trust in God will never be put to shame (Ro 10:11).