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

Gods plan for the people who first received that word was 70 years in exile, 500 miles from their homes and families. I’m not sure that’s the kind of thing that comes to mind when we quote that verse to someone in need of encouragement.

Today we’ll take a closer look at this verse and ask, “What is God saying here?” I think we’ll find a greater hope than what’s contained in just one verse.