Does God Promise Us An Easy Life? A Look Into Jeremiah 29:11

“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”.

Just behind John 3:16, you’ll find this popular verse from the book of Jeremiah. However, through its popularity, we have seen misconceptions arise. False teachers of the prosperity gospel have projected this verse to claim that is a promise from God that we will prosper in our health and wealth.

The teachings of the Bible show us and tell us how this simply cannot be true. Jesus, the only perfect human to ever exist, lead a life of tragedy and suffering. We are called as Christians to pick up our cross and follow Him – despite the hardships that will entail.

When studying this verse in Jeremiah, we need to consider the context to reveal its true meaning.

The Meaning

In this section of the Bible, the Israelites are trapped as slaves in Babylon. False prophets all around were claiming that God would be releasing His people soon.  However, the Lord revealed to Jeremiah that the slaves would not see freedom for another 70 years.

Imagine the initial devastation the slaves felt – to have the revelation that they would more than likely die in slavery.

Ultimately, it is in God’s will that the slaves should seek and find comfort in Him. This verse is specifically in dedication to the Israelites, as they tried to navigate their suffering. The Lord reminds us that no matter our trials and tribulations, His divine plan will be. Like He tells us in Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding”. He is in control.

My Thoughts

Unfortunately, it’s easy to live in selfishness. In the world, we are celebrated for putting our well-being first. That is why this verse has been tangled and twisted to mean that God will give us everything we ever wanted. It is important that we rebel against the wants of our flesh and start actively living out what God has called for us – to live in absolute selflessness.

Jeremiah 29:11 speaks to the Israelites who suffered – it is not a personal promise of blessings for you as an individual. We can extract great wisdom and teachings from every part of His word; however, we should not distort their meanings to glorify ourselves.

Although the guarantee of suffering, we will find comfort in Him. Psalm 29:11 states “The Lord gives strength to His people, and the Lord bless His people with peace”.