Jeremiah 29:11 says “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. I quoted this verse to a friend the other day and she came back with a question I wasn’t prepared to answer. She asked “How do we know the promise is for us, and not just for King David?” Would you help me answer this question?
This promise was made to Israel on the occasion of their relocation to Babylon. It was meant to re-assure them that even though they’d be gone for 70 years, it was not the end of the nation. The Lord was confirming His intent to restore them. Although many in the Church have appropriated this passage for themselves, I think it was meant for Israel and was fulfilled in their return from Babylon.
There are plenty of similar New Testament promises that are meant for the Church. John 10:10, 2 Cor. 9:8 and 2 Cor. 9:11 are a few examples. And of course the Lord’s promise of our future is unparalleled in Scripture and is beyond our comprehension (1 Cor. 2:9).