Jeremiah 29:11

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Maybe you’ve heard this verse preached many times…

Maybe it’s your favorite.

But have you ever paused to read what came before it?

God was about to hand over His people (Judah) into the hands of King Nebuchadnezzar.

They had turned away from Him.

Committed abominations.

Provoked Him to jealousy.

The people were terrified by the prophecy Jeremiah spoke.

They were being removed from the Promised Land.

Everything they had built—their homes, their wealth, their legacy was about to be burned, broken, and left behind.

And yet, even in the middle of judgment. God speaks hope and comfort.

Right in the midst of their rebellion.

Right in the middle of provoking Him to jealousy.

That’s the heart of our God.

Even when we’ve turned our backs on Him. He still pursues us.

Even when we’ve messed it all up. He doesn’t give up.

He never stops thinking of us with love.

Even in His judgment, He offers reconciliation.

Even in His discipline, He offers restoration.

Even in His correction, He brings goodness.