"Peace In These Times" by Kirk Hunt

And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace. (Jeremiah 29:7 KJV)

God brought clear and absolute judgment against the people of Judah. They were marched away from Jerusalem as the captives of Babylon. Yet, even in His anger, God could not help but love His children.

Even before they reached Babylon proper, God planned out Israel's well-being. He gave His exiles a command: “Pray for the peace of your new land.” “Be at peace any where you stand.”

Today's news is full of trauma and tragedy. For our all-seeing, all-knowing God, none of this is a surprise. Despite the trouble and travail of our times, only God's loving faithfulness prevents real disaster.

It's unlikely you are the prisoner of a conquering nation, but you may feel like a captive in these recent days. God has planted you right where He wants you. God intends to use you to make the peace.

We may be sojourners and pilgrims, but we can bless the locals anyway. Pray for the peace of your neighbors and coworkers. Pray for rest and calm in your municipality. As God's peace falls on them, yours will come.

We are God's children. He has planned our well-being. Pray for the peace of your land. Be at peace where you stand. Jehovah-shalom, the Lord of peace, will settle everyone around you, just to bless you.

Think: Even in these chaotic times, God wants me to be at peace, in Him.

Pray: “Lord, help me dwell in the strength and safety of your peace.”

Copyright © February 2008, Kirk Hunt