Coming to Life: 30-Day Devotionalනියැදිය

Exile and Hope

The exile to Babylon was a devastating chapter in Israel’s history. Jerusalem was destroyed, the temple torn down, and the people carried far from their homeland. Psalm 137 captures the pain: “How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?”

Exile was a time of judgment, but not abandonment. Through Jeremiah, God promised that He still had plans for His people — plans for a future and a hope. Through Ezekiel, He promised a new heart and a new spirit. God’s discipline was meant to restore, not destroy.

Exile is not only historical but also spiritual. Sin separates us from God, leaving us as strangers in a foreign land. Yet even in exile, God whispers hope. He does not leave us without a promise of return.

That promise finds fulfillment in Jesus. Just as God restored His people to their land, so Christ brings us home to God. He gives us new hearts by His Spirit and promises that one day He will return to take us to Himself. Our exile will end, and we will dwell with Him forever.

Exile reminds us that we are pilgrims here. This world is not our final home. Our hope is anchored in Christ, who prepares a place for us and promises to bring us safely there.

Reflection Questions

1. When have you felt like you were in “exile,” far from God? How did His promises give you hope?
2. How does the promise of Jesus preparing a place for you shape your daily life?

Prayer

God of hope, thank You that even in exile, You are near. Thank You for Jesus, who brings me home to You and gives me a new heart. Help me to live as a pilgrim in this world, with my eyes fixed on the eternal home You have promised. Ame