For Glory and for Good

Have you ever found yourself in a situation you didn't choose, wondering, "Why am I here?" Perhaps you're struggling through a difficult class, facing family challenges, or battling an illness. In these moments, it's natural to question our purpose and long for an escape. But what if there's a greater plan at work, even in our most challenging circumstances?

The story of ancient Israel's exile to Babylon offers profound insights into this universal human struggle. Imagine being forcibly removed from your homeland, stripped of everything familiar, and planted in a foreign culture. This was the reality for God's people, taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar. In their despair, they received an unexpected message that speaks volumes to us today: We are here for the glory of God and for the good of our city.

Let's unpack this radical idea:

Seeking God's Glory in Unlikely Places

What does it mean to glorify God? At its core, it's about giving weight and value to something. Picture a two-ton rhinoceros suddenly appearing in your living room – you'd certainly feel its presence! Similarly, glorifying God means acknowledging His weighty presence and supreme value in every aspect of our lives.

The Israelites, like us, often struggled with this concept. They were prone to exchanging the glory of the true God for worthless idols – created things that promised quick fixes and easy answers. Sound familiar? We, too, can fall into the trap of seeking fulfillment in good things (relationships, career success, material possessions) while missing the ultimate source of meaning.

The North African Bishop Augustine wisely observed, "Our hearts are restless until they rest in God alone." When we attempt to find ultimate satisfaction outside of God, we end up digging wells that hold no water, leaving us with an emptiness that nothing else can truly fill.

So how do we seek God's glory, especially when life doesn't go as planned?

1.  Recognize God's Sovereign Plan: The exiles needed to understand that God Himself had orchestrated their circumstances. This shift in perspective changes everything. What if your current struggle is part of a greater purpose?
2.  Listen for God's True Voice: In Babylon, false prophets offered enticing messages of quick deliverance. We must attune our ears to God's authentic voice, even when it challenges us. Are we willing to hear hard truths that lead to growth?
3.  Glorify God in the Struggle: Sometimes, healing or deliverance doesn't come immediately. Can we praise God and find purpose even in seasons of difficulty?

Seeking the Good of Our City

The message to the exiles gets remarkably practical. God instructs them to "seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper." (Jeremiah 29:7)

This challenges us to reframe our thinking. Instead of constantly wishing for escape, what if we invested in the place where God has us right now? Here's how we can seek the good of our "city":

• Be Productive: Build houses, plant gardens, start families. Use your gifts and abilities to contribute positively to your community.
• Foster Relationships: In an age of isolation, create genuine connections. Open your home, share meals, build community.
• Pursue Excellence: Whether in work, study, or creative endeavors, do it with purpose and to the best of your ability.
• Strengthen Families: Healthy marriages and multi-generational family bonds have a profound impact on society.
• Pray for Your Community: Regardless of political disagreements, pray for leaders, institutions, and the overall flourishing of your area.
• Be a Peacemaker: In a divided world, the church should model unity amidst diversity. Seek understanding and reconciliation.

The Ultimate Fulfillment

The exiles received a promise: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) While often taken out of context, this verse points to a greater reality.

Israel's return from exile was only a partial fulfillment. The ultimate answer to our longing for purpose and belonging is found in Jesus Christ. He perfectly glorified God and sought the good of others, even to the point of sacrificial death on the cross.

The good news of Christianity is not simply following Jesus' example (which we'd inevitably fail at). Instead, it's receiving His perfect record as a free gift. Through faith in Christ, our failures are placed on Him, and His righteousness is credited to us. This transformative exchange empowers us to truly live for God's glory and the good of others.

Living with Purpose Today

So, why are you here? The answer transcends your current circumstances. You are here to glorify God and seek the good of the place He has put you – not through your own striving, but through the power of Christ living in you.

This perspective revolutionizes how we approach life:

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Seek out a community of believers who can encourage and challenge you. Dive deep into Scripture to align your heart with God's purposes. Pray boldly for your "city," believing that as you seek its good, you'll discover profound purpose and fulfillment.

Today, embrace the adventure of living for something greater than yourself. In the words of the prophet Micah, strive to "do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God." As you do, you may find that the very place you longed to escape becomes the setting for your greatest growth and impact.