thinking bible.

You asked

what specific 'babylons' in your life or community might need this kind of long term engagement?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Jeremiah 29:7

Seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to Yahweh for it; for in its peace you will have peace.

This verse is part of a letter sent by the prophet Jeremiah from Jerusalem to the Jewish exiles who had been forcibly taken to Babylon in the 6th century BCE. He advises them on how to live during their long captivity, counteracting false prophets who promised a quick return.

What does seeking the well-being of a difficult or challenging situation, rather than just escaping it, require from us?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Romans 12:18

    This New Testament passage encourages living peaceably with all people, aligning with the call to seek peace even in challenging circumstances.

  • Matthew 5:44

    Jesus' teaching to love enemies and pray for those who persecute echoes the spirit of praying for the welfare of an oppressive city.

  • 1 Peter 2:13-17

    This passage advises submitting to governing authorities and living as good citizens, even as 'foreigners' and 'strangers' in the world.

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