In biblical times, when a nation was defeated like Israel was – people believed that it was because that nation’s god was dead. But while the people were in exile, God shows them that he isn’t dead, he hasn’t abandoned them. In fact, what’s actually happening is this: In their darkest moment, God is with them and actively working out his plans to bring them home.
Remember how prophets had two types of messages? The first type of message is what? A message of warning – warnings the people ignored which led to their exile. Now while they’re in their exile, the prophets have another type of message. But it’s not a message of condemnation or blame. What kind of message is it? It’s a message of hope.
What is this message of hope? How can this message encourage you when you’re living in a time of exile and despair?
