Jeremiah 29:12

Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.

Study Bible

Then you will call upon Me
This phrase begins with a promise of restored communication and relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew root for "call" is קָרָא (qara), which implies not just a vocal call but an earnest seeking or summoning. In the historical context of Jeremiah, the Israelites were in exile in Babylon, a period of punishment and reflection. This calling upon God signifies a turning point, a moment of repentance and renewed faith. It is a reminder that God is always ready to listen when His people sincerely reach out to Him, emphasizing the personal nature of the relationship between God and believers.

and come and pray to Me
The act of coming and praying indicates movement towards God, both physically and spiritually. The Hebrew word for "pray" is פָּלַל (palal), which means to intercede or to mediate. This suggests a deep, heartfelt communication with God, not just a ritualistic or superficial act. In the context of the Israelites, it was a call to return to the covenant relationship with God, acknowledging their dependence on Him. This phrase encourages believers to approach God with confidence and humility, knowing that He desires a close relationship with them.

and I will listen to you
The promise that God will listen is profound and comforting. The Hebrew word for "listen" is שָׁמַע (shama), which means to hear intelligently, often with the implication of attention and obedience. This is not a passive hearing but an active, engaged listening. In the historical context, this assurance was crucial for the exiled Israelites, who may have felt abandoned. It reassures believers that God is attentive to their prayers and is willing to respond. This promise underscores the faithfulness of God and His readiness to restore and bless those who seek Him earnestly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of judgment and hope. He was called by God to prophesy to the people of Judah and Jerusalem.

2. The Exiles in Babylon
The audience of Jeremiah's letter, who were taken captive from Jerusalem to Babylon. They were experiencing a period of punishment and discipline from God due to their disobedience.

3. Babylon
The place where the Israelites were exiled. It represents a time of trial and testing for God's people.

4. God (Yahweh)
The central figure in this passage, who promises to listen to His people when they call upon Him.

5. Prayer
The act of communication with God, emphasized in this verse as a means of seeking God's presence and intervention.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Prayer is a powerful tool for believers. It is not just a ritual but a genuine communication with God, who promises to listen.

God's Faithfulness
Even in times of exile or difficulty, God remains faithful to His promises. He listens to His people and responds to their prayers.

Seeking God
The act of calling upon God requires intentionality and faith. Believers are encouraged to actively seek God in all circumstances.

Hope in Exile
Just as the exiles in Babylon were given hope through God's promise, believers today can find hope in God's willingness to hear and answer prayer.

Relationship with God
Prayer is a vital component of a personal relationship with God. It is through prayer that believers can draw near to Him and experience His presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our interpretation of Jeremiah 29:12?

2. In what ways can we apply the promise of God listening to our prayers in our daily lives?

3. How does the assurance of God listening to our prayers encourage us during difficult times?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our prayer life is intentional and faith-driven?

5. How do the teachings in Jeremiah 29:12 connect with Jesus' teachings on prayer in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 7:14
This verse emphasizes the importance of humility, prayer, and seeking God's face, promising that God will hear from heaven and heal the land. It connects with Jeremiah 29:12 in the assurance that God listens to the prayers of His people.

Matthew 7:7-8
Jesus teaches about asking, seeking, and knocking, promising that those who do so will receive, find, and have doors opened to them. This New Testament teaching echoes the promise in Jeremiah 29:12 that God listens to those who earnestly seek Him.

Philippians 4:6-7
Paul encourages believers to present their requests to God through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, promising peace that surpasses understanding. This aligns with the assurance in Jeremiah 29:12 of God's attentiveness to prayer.