Old Testament
Jeremiah 29:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Seek the peace of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD for it, for in its peace you will find peace.
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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.
What Jeremiah 29:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs the exiled Israelites to actively seek the well-being of the city where they have been taken. Instead of resisting their situation, they are encouraged to pray for the city and its peace. The underlying message is that their own peace and prosperity are linked to the peace of the place they inhabit. By investing in the welfare of their surroundings, they will ultimately benefit as well. This reflects a broader principle of community and interconnectedness, emphasizing that one's own well-being is often tied to the well-being of others. The call to pray for the city also highlights the importance of spiritual engagement in the midst of challenging circumstances, suggesting that faith can play a crucial role in fostering peace and stability, even in exile.
How to apply Jeremiah 29:7 to your life
In our own lives, we can apply this teaching by actively contributing to the well-being of our communities, even when we face difficulties. Praying for our cities and working towards their peace can lead to personal fulfillment and a sense of belonging, reminding us that our actions can have a positive impact on those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: A Letter to the Exiles (Jeremiah 29:1–14)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 29:7 mean?
Jeremiah 29:7 means that God is instructing the exiled Israelites to seek the well-being of the city they are in and to pray for it. Their own peace and prosperity are connected to the peace of the city.
What is the significance of praying for the city in Jeremiah 29:7?
Praying for the city in Jeremiah 29:7 emphasizes the importance of community and interconnectedness. It suggests that by caring for the welfare of their surroundings, the exiles will also find their own peace.
How can we apply Jeremiah 29:7 in our lives today?
We can apply Jeremiah 29:7 by actively contributing to our communities and praying for their well-being. This can lead to personal fulfillment and a stronger sense of belonging.
What does 'peace of the city' refer to in Jeremiah 29:7?
The 'peace of the city' in Jeremiah 29:7 refers to the overall well-being and stability of the community where the exiles live. It highlights the idea that their own well-being is tied to the health of the city.
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