In a materialistic culture, we are at risk of self-interpreting today’s verse as a general promise of rapid material increase and social promotion. But that is the kind of false hope Jeremiah rebuked in the preceding chapter. In that situation, God had a 70-year plan of exile in Babylon to restore the hearts of the people to faithfulness to God alone. The following verses include, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you.” What a promise! The ultimate hope and future God was preparing was a restored relationship with Him through Jesus the Messiah. 

While we are on earth, we can ask God for a vision for our future. The exiles were promised restoration of place and material provision in Israel. Like their first entry into the Promised Land, the restoration included challenges. In response, they could believe God, act accordingly, and participate in the promise, or not believe Him and miss the opportunity. 

In the meantime, the people were not to pine away for what they did not yet have. Rather, God instructed them to build homes, have families, and pray for the success of the city in which they lived. 

How do we cooperate with God’s plan to provide spiritual and natural restoration? By focusing first on the restoration of our souls and cultivation of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Seek first the Kingdom of God and all these things will be added to you as well. Recognize with gratitude what God has provided. Seek the success of the place God has you now. Then you will be ready for a next step or a great leap when God sets the opportunity before you.

Querido Padre Celestial,

Thank You that Jesus repeated this promise when he told us to ask, seek, and knock. I confess I am often half-hearted in seeking Jesus. I confess I am distracted and somewhat afraid of missing out on fun stuff now for future promises. Give me patience and trust by Your Holy Spirit. Silence the false voices that You did not send who speak lies or promise quick results. Help me discern the voices that are speaking Your word into my heart from the voices of the world, the flesh, and the devil. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Turn your prayer now to your current situation. Thank God for food, shelter, and work. If you have an employer, pray for their success. Thank God for your city and pray for its success, honest leaders, wise decisions, peace, and safety.