Jeremiya 29 - KBTP & KJV

Have I not commanded you Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

As we step into a brand-new year, it’s easy to get caught up in the “New Year, New Me” vibe. Social media is buzzing with resolutions, glow-ups, and vision boards. But let’s pause for a second, what if a fresh start isn’t just about what we do but about what God is doing in us?

1. A Promise of Renewal

The Bible is full of stories where God hits the reset button. Think about Noah. After the flood, God gave humanity a second chance. The rainbow became a symbol of His promise to never give up on us. Genesis 9:13 says, “I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.” This covenant reminds us that no matter how overwhelming life gets, God is always faithful to renew His relationship with us. He’s not just a God of second chances but of endless chances, each wrapped in His love and grace.

2. Grace for the Israelites

The Israelites messed up countless times, yet God’s grace led them into the Promised Land. His faithfulness shows us that no mistake is too big for a fresh start. Deuteronomy 31:8 reminds us, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Even in seasons of wandering and waiting, God was their guide and protector. This narrative is a powerful reminder that God’s presence remains constant, even when we lose our way.

3. Becoming a New Creation

Through Jesus, we’re not just given a clean slate, we’re made new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse is a reminder that God’s transformation starts within. Being a new creation doesn’t mean life gets easier; it means we’re empowered by the Holy Spirit to live differently. It’s about leaving behind the labels and lies that once defined us and stepping boldly into the identity God has given us.

4. Letting Go of the Past

Sometimes life feels messy, and it’s hard to move forward. But God’s Word encourages us to release what’s behind. Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” God’s plans for us are always forward-focused. Letting go doesn’t mean pretending the pain or mistakes never happened. It means trusting God to use even our brokenness for His glory and to lead us into something better.

5. Daily Renewal Through Mercy

God’s mercies aren’t just for the start of the year, they’re new every single morning. Lamentations 3:22-23 proclaims, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” This means every day is a fresh start. No matter how badly yesterday went, today is a chance to start over with God’s compassion as our foundation. His love is unshakable, and His faithfulness is unending.

6. Bold Steps of Faith

A fresh start often requires bold moves, like stepping out in faith. Joshua 1:9 encourages us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Trust that God’s got your back as you move forward. Taking bold steps can feel scary, but it’s often where we grow the most. It’s in these moments of uncertainty that we discover the depth of God’s strength and provision.

7. Trusting in His Plans

As we embrace a new year, we can find peace in knowing that God’s plans are always for our good. Jeremiah 29:11assures us, “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.” This promise doesn’t mean life will be problem-free, but it does mean that God’s purposes are perfect. Even when things don’t make sense, we can trust that He is working all things together for our good.

How to Make It Practical

Pray About It: Ask God to show you what areas of your life need a reset. Be honest with Him; He can handle it.
Find Your Squad: Surround yourself with people who point you toward Jesus. Life hits different when you’ve got a community that lifts you up.
Set God-Centered Goals: Instead of just focusing on fitness or finances, think about how you can grow spiritually this year. Maybe it’s reading your Bible daily or serving others.

A Fresh Start for Everyone

Whether you’re stepping into this year with excitement or dragging last year’s baggage behind you, remember this: God specializes in fresh starts. He’s not limited by our failures or fears. His love is bigger, His grace is stronger, and His plans are better than anything we could imagine.

So, as you kick off this year, don’t just strive for change, invite God into your journey. He’s ready to write a new chapter in your story. Are you?

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.-3

School can be tough, whether you’re dealing with classes, friends, or figuring yourself out. The Bible offers timeless wisdom that can guide you through these experiences. Here are seven biblical wisdom nuggets, accompanied by scripture, to help you sail smoothly through school.

1. Seek God’s Wisdom First

Proverbs 2:6 (NIV): “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Before diving into your studies, seek God’s wisdom. Acknowledge that true knowledge comes from Him. When you prioritize God’s wisdom, you gain insights that go beyond textbooks, helping you make better decisions in both academic and personal matters.

2. Be Diligent and Hardworking

Proverbs 13:4 (NIV): “A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”

Success in school requires effort and perseverance. Laziness will lead to unfulfilled goals, but diligence brings rewards. Whether it’s studying for exams or working on projects, approach each task with a mindset of diligence, knowing that hard work pays off.

3. Practice Integrity in All Things

Proverbs 10:9 (NIV): “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”

Integrity means being honest and having strong moral principles, even when no one is watching. Cheating on an exam or copying homework may seem like a shortcut, but it ultimately leads to trouble. Uphold integrity in your academic pursuits, and you’ll walk with confidence.

4. Surround Yourself with Wise Friends

Proverbs 13:20 (NIV): “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

The company you keep influences your behavior and choices. Surround yourself with friends who uplift you, encourage your growth, and share your values. Wise friends will challenge you to be better and help you stay on the right path.

5. Trust in God’s Plan

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): “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.”

School can be overwhelming with its uncertainties and pressures. Trust that God has a plan for your life, even when things don’t go as expected. Whether you face disappointments or setbacks, believe that God is guiding you toward a hopeful future.

6. Manage Your Time Wisely

Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIV): “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

Time management is crucial for balancing studies, extracurricular activities, and personal time. Use your time wisely, avoiding procrastination. Prioritize tasks and make the most of every opportunity to learn and grow.

7. Pray About Everything

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer is a powerful tool in navigating school life. Whether you’re stressed about an upcoming test or unsure about your future, bring your concerns to God in prayer. Prayer brings peace and clarity, helping you stay focused and calm in all situations.

Conclusion

Applying these biblical wisdom nuggets to your school life can significantly enhance your experience. By seeking God’s wisdom, practicing diligence, maintaining integrity, surrounding yourself with wise friends, trusting in God’s plan, managing your time wisely, and praying about everything, you can navigate the challenges of school with confidence and grace. Remember, God is with you every step of the way, ready to guide and support you.

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.

Birthdays are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate life, reflect on our journey, and give thanks for the blessings we’ve received. The Bible offers numerous verses that can inspire and uplift us on these special occasions. Here are seven Bible verses that are perfect for celebrating birthdays:

1. 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.”

A birthday is a powerful reminder that God has a plan for each of us. As we celebrate another year of life, it’s comforting to know that our future is in His hands, filled with hope and promise.

2. Psalm 139:13-14

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

Celebrating a birthday is a perfect time to reflect on the wonder of our creation and the love that God has for us.

3. Proverbs 9:11

“For through wisdom your days will be many, and years will be added to your life.”

Blessings come with living a life guided by wisdom. It encourages us to seek wisdom in our daily lives, promising that doing so will add to our days and enrich our years.

4. James 1:17

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

Birthdays are a celebration of the gift of life, and this verse reminds us that every good thing we have comes from God. It’s an opportunity to give thanks for the blessings we’ve received over the past year.

5. Psalm 91:11

“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

As we celebrate birthdays, it’s reassuring to remember God’s promise of protection. This verse assures us that God watches over us and sends His angels to guard us in all our endeavors.

6. Lamentations 3:22-23

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Each birthday is a testament to His compassion and a new beginning filled with His mercy and love.

7. Philippians 1:6

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

We are encouraged to trust that God is continually working in our lives. Our birthdays are milestones in the journey He has set for us, and He will faithfully complete the good work He has begun in us.

Conclusion

Celebrating birthdays with these Bible verses can bring a deeper sense of meaning and gratitude to the occasion. Reflecting on God’s promises, His love, and His plans for our lives adds a spiritual dimension to our celebrations, reminding us of His presence and purpose in our journey. Happy Birthday!

Lukwalo kuna bakatapiwa

1 Awa matama e lukwalo gwa Jeremiya nlebesambeli gwaakatumilila sholotjena dzakatapiwa ne bapirisiti ne balebesambeli ne bathu bose bakabe batapiwa ndi Nebukadineza mu Jerusalema ebayisa ku Bhabhiloni. 2 Ikoku kwakabe kuli shule kwa Mambo Jekoniya na mme ba mambo ne ngomwa ne makulukota e Juda ne Jerusalema ne babezhi ne bathuli be butale basinotapiwa mu Jerusalema. 3 Lukwalo gwakayisiwa nge luboko ndi Eliyasa nkololo wa Shafani na Gemariya nkololo wa Hilikiya ibo Zedekiya mambo we Juda baakabe abatumila ku Bhabhiloni kuna Mambo Nebukadineza guti, 4 “Yahwe Masimbawose Ndzimu we Iziraela bakati ku batapiwa bose babakatapa mu Jerusalema bebatapila ku Bhabhiloni, 5 ‘Bakani ng'umba mugale mu dzili, limani minda muje zwavung'wa muili. 6 Lobolani mube ne bakololo ne bakololokadzi, lobolelani bakololo benyu, lobodzani bakololokadzi benyu kuti ndizo bazwale bakololo ne bakololokadzi, wandani ikoko musitapudzike. 7 Shakani kunyalala mu nzi nkulu wandakamutapila ku uli, muutembezelele kuna Yahwe ngoti aubhudilila namwi mowobhudilila.’ 8 Ngoti Yahwe Masimbawose Ndzimu we Iziraela bakati, ‘Musiletje balebesambeli benyu ne bakandili bapakati kwenyu bakamutjebela. Musidume mawoloto amunobakulumbidza kuti babe nawo. 9 Banomulebelambeli manyepkhwa nge zina langu, andizobatuma,’ kojalo Yahwe.

Out with the Old, In with God’s New Blessings!

This means every day is a fresh start. No matter how badly yesterday went, today is a chance to start over with God’s compassion as our foundation. His love is unshakable, and His faithfulness is unending.

7 Biblical Wisdom Nuggets to Help You In School

Applying these biblical wisdom nuggets to your school life can significantly enhance your experience. By seeking God's wisdom, practicing diligence, maintaining integrity, surrounding yourself with wise friends, trusting in God’s plan, managing your time wisely, and praying about everything, you can navigate the challenges of school with confidence and grace. Remember, God is with you every step of the way, ready to guide and support you.

Celebrating Birthdays: 7 Bible Verses to Reflect On

Celebrating birthdays with these Bible verses can bring a deeper sense of meaning and gratitude to the occasion. Reflecting on God's promises, His love, and His plans for our lives adds a spiritual dimension to our celebrations, reminding us of His presence and purpose in our journey. Happy Birthday!

10 “Ngoti Yahwe bakati, ‘Kowoti makole ali makumi ali kutenda (70) asinopinda e Bhabhiloni, ndowomukumba ngono amushingikadzila kugalabgwe kwangu amubgwiliza mu bugalo igogu. 11

Ngoti ndoziba ndongoloso yandinayo nge kwenyu, ndongoloso yekumuthama kuti mubhudilile kusi kumuthamila tjakabipa, ndongoloso ye kumugadzabgwe ne kube ne bumangwana,’ kojalo Yahwe. 12 ‘Ipapo mowondidana mukazha mukawonditembezela ngono ndowomuteedza. 13 Mowondishaka ngono mowondibona, amundishaka nge mimoyo yenyu yose, 14 ndowobong'wa ndimwi,’ koleba Yahwe. ‘Ndowoshandula kutapiwa kwenyu, ndowomukubunganya kudwa mu zwitjaba zose ne magalo wose andakamutatila kuali,’ koleba Yahwe. ‘Ndowomubgwiliza mu bugalo gwandakamudusa ndimuyisa mu kutapiwa.’

15 “Amuti, ‘Yahwe bakatimusila balebesambeli mu Bhabhiloni,’ 16 koga etji nditjo tjinolebgwa ndi Yahwe ngekwe mambo ugele mu tjigalo tje bumambo tja Dafite ne ngekwe bathu bose bakasala mu nzi iwoyo nkulu, hama dzenyu dzisakayenda namwi mu kutapiwa, 17 ee Yahwe Masimbawose bakati, ‘Bonani, ndobatumilila thumo ne bhamba ne bugwele, ndowobathama kuti bange phaya dzakabola dzisingake dzikajiwa. 18 Ndowobatatamila nge thumo ne bhamba ne bugwele ngono ndowobathama tjithu tjinopalusa ku mibuso yose ye shango, kuti babe bhiso, ne kudziyidzika ne madado ne kulengudzika pakati kwe zwitjaba zwandinobatatila ku zwili. 19 Ngoti abazohwa matama angu,’ koleba Yahwe, ‘matama andakatumila ndipaphulula nge balebesambeli balanda bangu, koga bakasiteedze,’ koleba Yahwe.

20 “Ndizo ke, ihwani dama la Yahwe, imwi batapiwa bandakadusa mu Jerusalema ndibayisa ku Bhabhiloni. 21 Tjinolebgwa ndi Yahwe Masimbawose Ndzimu we Iziraela ngekwa Ahabu nkololo wa Kolaya na Zedekiya nkololo wa Maseya ibo bakalebesambeli manyepkhwa ku muli nge zina langu ndiyetji, ‘Bonani, ndowobalonga mu luboko gwa Nebukadineza mambo we Bhabhiloni ngono unobabulaya mbeli kwenyu. 22 Ngoti nge kwabo batapiwa bose be Juda baku Bhabhiloni banowoshingisa bhiso ileli beti, “Yahwe ngabathame sekwa bakathama na Zedekiya na Ahabu ibo mambo we Bhabhiloni babakapisila mu moto.” 23 Ngoti bakathama mabhatisa shoni mu Iziraela, bakathama bupongwe ne bakadzi be babakidzani babo, kakale bakaleba nge zina langu matama e manyepkhwa andisakabadwa. Ndimi ndinoziba kakale ndimi ntendeki nge kwako,’ kojalo Yahwe.”

Lukwalo gunoyenda kuna Shemaya

24 Shemaya we Nehelamu iye un'dwe uti, 25 “Yahwe Masimbawose Ndzimu we Iziraela bakati, unotumila hwalo nge zina lilo ku bathu bose mu Jerusalema ne kuna Zefaniya nkololo wa Maasiya we mpirisiti ne ku bamwe bapirisiti uti, 26 ‘Yahwe bakubiga mpirisiti mu bumo gwa Jehoyada we mpirisiti, kuti ndizo ube ntungamili mu Ng'umba ya Yahwe kuti utungamile nlume mmwe ne mmwe unopenga unozwithama nlebesambeli kuti unkwebele mu bhangwana ne mu ketani dze ntshibha. 27 Ini ngono usatjemela Jeremiya we Anatoti wakalebesambeli kukuli? 28 Wakatumila ndayidzo iyeyi kutili ku Bhabhiloni eti, “Kutapiwa kwenyu kowotola tjibaka tjilefu, bakani ng'umba mu gale mu dzili, limani muje zojiwa zwenyu zwamavuna.” ’ ”

29 Zafaniya we mpirisiti kabala lukwalo mu zebe dza Jeremiya we nlebesambeli. 30 Ipapo dama la Yahwe likazha kuna Jeremiya liti, 31 “Tumila batapiwa bose matama anoti, ‘Yahwe bakati ngekwa Shemaya we Nehelamu, “Ngoti Shemaya wakamulebeselambeli ndisantuma, kamuthama kuti mugalabgwe manyepkhwa,” ndizo Yahwe bakati, “Bonani ndowoloba shamu Shemaya we Nehelamu ne zwizekugwana zwizwe zose, akutobe ne ng'ompela wabo unowosala pakati kwe bathu ibaba kakale aatowobona zwithu zwibuya zwandinowothamila bathu bangu, kojalo Yahwe, ngoti wakaandamisa bupanduki kubhayana nami.” ’ ” 32

1 Now these are the words of the letter that Jeremiah the prophet sent from Jerusalem unto the residue of the elders which were carried away captives, and to the priests, and to the prophets, and to all the people whom Nebuchadnezzar had carried away captive from Jerusalem to Babylon; 2 (After that Jeconiah the king, and the queen, and the eunuchs, the princes of Judah and Jerusalem, and the carpenters, and the smiths, were departed from Jerusalem;) 3 By the hand of Elasah the son of Shaphan, and Gemariah the son of Hilkiah, (whom Zedekiah king of Judah sent unto Babylon to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon) saying, 4 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, unto all that are carried away captives, whom I have caused to be carried away from Jerusalem unto Babylon; 5 Build ye houses, and dwell in them; and plant gardens, and eat the fruit of them; 6 Take ye wives, and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons, and give your daughters to husbands, that they may bear sons and daughters; that ye may be increased there, and not diminished. 7 And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.

8 ¶ For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Let not your prophets and your diviners, that be in the midst of you, deceive you, neither hearken to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed. 9 For they prophesy falsely unto you in my name: I have not sent them, saith the LORD.

10 ¶ For thus saith the LORD, That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform my good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place. 11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. 12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. 13 And ye shall seek me, and find me , when ye shall search for me with all your heart. 14 And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.

15 ¶ Because ye have said, The LORD hath raised us up prophets in Babylon; 16 Know that thus saith the LORD of the king that sitteth upon the throne of David, and of all the people that dwelleth in this city, and of your brethren that are not gone forth with you into captivity; 17 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will send upon them the sword, the famine, and the pestilence, and will make them like vile figs, that cannot be eaten, they are so evil. 18 And I will persecute them with the sword, with the famine, and with the pestilence, and will deliver them to be removed to all the kingdoms of the earth, to be a curse, and an astonishment, and an hissing, and a reproach, among all the nations whither I have driven them: 19 Because they have not hearkened to my words, saith the LORD, which I sent unto them by my servants the prophets, rising up early and sending them; but ye would not hear, saith the LORD.

20 ¶ Hear ye therefore the word of the LORD, all ye of the captivity, whom I have sent from Jerusalem to Babylon: 21 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, of Ahab the son of Kolaiah, and of Zedekiah the son of Maaseiah, which prophesy a lie unto you in my name; Behold, I will deliver them into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon; and he shall slay them before your eyes; 22 And of them shall be taken up a curse by all the captivity of Judah which are in Babylon, saying, The LORD make thee like Zedekiah and like Ahab, whom the king of Babylon roasted in the fire; 23 Because they have committed villany in Israel, and have committed adultery with their neighbours’ wives, and have spoken lying words in my name, which I have not commanded them; even I know, and am a witness, saith the LORD.

24 ¶ Thus shalt thou also speak to Shemaiah the Nehelamite, saying, 25 Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saying, Because thou hast sent letters in thy name unto all the people that are at Jerusalem, and to Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah the priest, and to all the priests, saying, 26 The LORD hath made thee priest in the stead of Jehoiada the priest, that ye should be officers in the house of the LORD, for every man that is mad, and maketh himself a prophet, that thou shouldest put him in prison, and in the stocks. 27 Now therefore why hast thou not reproved Jeremiah of Anathoth, which maketh himself a prophet to you? 28 For therefore he sent unto us in Babylon, saying, This captivity is long: build ye houses, and dwell in them; and plant gardens, and eat the fruit of them. 29 And Zephaniah the priest read this letter in the ears of Jeremiah the prophet.

30 ¶ Then came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah, saying, 31 Send to all them of the captivity, saying, Thus saith the LORD concerning Shemaiah the Nehelamite; Because that Shemaiah hath prophesied unto you, and I sent him not, and he caused you to trust in a lie: 32 Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will punish Shemaiah the Nehelamite, and his seed: he shall not have a man to dwell among this people; neither shall he behold the good that I will do for my people, saith the LORD; because he hath taught rebellion against the LORD.