In a foreign land?

The prophet Jeremiah points to the benefits of following God from the start, rather than veer off into idolatry and spiritual apathy to be brought back on track through suffering.

Jeremiah warned Judah that Jerusalem and the holy Temple would be destroyed due to their spiritual apathy. The people didn’t heed the warning. The temple was lost and the people were captured and exiled to Babylon.

However, even in captivity, in a foreign land, the Israelites learned they could worship God. Of course, the spiritual apathy had to be overcome and attention given to divine spirit, but it was possible.

If we find ourselves in foreign territory, whether physical or mental, God is with us. Truth is with us. Spirit and love is with us.

Mentally, new ideas come to mind. The ideas may feel foreign, but it’s okay. God is with you, helping you understand the idea.

Jeremiah 30: 18-19

“Thus says the Lord:
Behold, I will restore the fortunes of the tents of Jacob
    and have compassion on his dwellings;
the city shall be rebuilt on its mound,
    and the palace shall stand where it used to be.
¹⁹Out of them shall come songs of thanksgiving,
    and the voices of those who celebrate.