Old Testament
Jeremiah 29:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Jeremiah 29:11, God reassures His people that He has good plans for them.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
For I know the thoughts I have toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
Plain Meaning
God tells the Jewish exiles in Babylon that His plans for them are good, not harmful. 'Expected end' in KJV English means a hoped-for future — a future with something to look forward to. God is saying: I have not forgotten you, I am not finished with you, and what I have planned leads somewhere good. This is the reason (note 'For') He just told them they would return home after seventy years.
Read It in Context
Jeremiah wrote a letter to Jews who had been taken captive to Babylon. False prophets were telling them the exile would end quickly. God corrects this: the captivity will last seventy years (verse 10). Verse 11 then gives the reason to trust that promise — God's intentions toward them are peaceful, not punishing them forever.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Jeremiah 29:11 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 29:11, God reassures His people that He has good plans for them. Despite their current struggles and the challenges they face, God’s intentions are filled with hope and peace. This verse emphasizes that God is not out to harm them but desires to lead them to a positive future. The context of this verse is significant; it was spoken to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon, a time of despair and uncertainty. God reminds them that even in difficult circumstances, He is in control and has a purpose for their lives. The 'expected end' refers to the future that God has prepared for them, which is filled with hope and fulfillment. This promise encourages believers to trust in God's plan, even when they cannot see the way forward. It serves as a reminder that God’s thoughts and plans are always for our good, urging us to remain faithful and hopeful in His promises.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 29:11 to your life
When facing uncertainty or hardship, remember that God has a good plan for your life. Trust in His promises and seek peace in His presence. This verse encourages you to maintain hope and faith, knowing that God is guiding you toward a positive future.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary · Jeremiah 29:11 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 29:11 mean?
Jeremiah 29:11 means that God has good plans for His people, filled with hope and peace, even during difficult times. It reassures believers that God is in control and has a purpose for their lives.
What is the meaning of 'expected end' in Jeremiah 29:11?
The 'expected end' in Jeremiah 29:11 refers to the future that God has prepared for His people, which is filled with hope and fulfillment. It signifies a positive outcome that God desires for those who trust in Him.
How can I apply Jeremiah 29:11 to my life?
You can apply Jeremiah 29:11 by trusting that God has a good plan for your life, especially during tough times. Focus on seeking peace in His presence and maintaining hope in His promises.
Why did God say this to the Israelites in Jeremiah 29:11?
God said this to the Israelites in Jeremiah 29:11 to comfort them during their exile in Babylon, reminding them that despite their struggles, He has a purpose and a hopeful future for them.
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