Then you will call upon me and go and pray to me and I will listen to you. – Jer 29:12
Today’s verse talks about prayer. When we look closely though, the use of the word Then, implies a pre-requisite to be fulfilled, before calling and praying and listening. Let’s look at them, since those are relevant even today.
Background: Israel/Judah are in exile from Jerusalem after repeatedly being warned by Jeremiah to follow God. Jeremiah prophesied their destruction & so, they are in exile.
We see here YHWH giving them into the hands of Nebuchadnezzar, but also letting them know that in 70 yrs, he will restore/renew them. Even in rebuke, God cared for them. PTL.
We see in:
1) v7. God encourages them to Pray for Prosperity of the land, they were in exile: We must pray for the land we are in (and our homeland – if applicable). Given the current conditions across our land’s, where disease & pestilence are prevailing, we should plead; for peace & healings & governing bodies, so we may prosper, for in it, lies our wellbeing. Prosper does not necessarily mean financially, it may as well be, living peaceful/normal lives, as it gives great harmony.
2) v8-9 False Prophets: we see Christianity now days becoming an avenue for gaining money. An adultered version of God’s word is being presented. Health, wealth and prosperity (which God provides us with), seem to take precedence over, walking in Gods ways and killing besetting sin. To combat them, we should heed & Pray & be equipped with the knowledge of the word, so we may present ourselves, as a workman that need not be ashamed but rightly divides the word of truth. 2 Tim 2:15
3) v12-13 Prayer: When we obey Gods direction and choose His ways, he will be nigh unto us & listen to our Prayers, as is stated in today’s verses.
4) v14 Presence: Notably, not only does He listen to our prayers but we will also find his Presence when we seek him with our entire heart.
So as in the days of Jeremiah, so also now, we need to Pray for Prosperity of our lands, heed from False Prophets, obey his commands so we can call unto him with our Petitions and to finally find his Presence.