Exiles Living Before the Face of God

How can believers live as exiles before the face of God in a world that is not their home?Dr. Joel Beeke draws a parallel between believers today and the exiles in Jeremiah's time, emphasizing that Christians are sojourners and pilgrims in this world. Just as the exiles were instructed to build, dwell, and plant in Babylon, believers today must seek to live purposefully in every aspect of their lives, whether in family, personal, church, or work settings. The challenge is to live with intention, asking daily how to build, dwell, and plant as pilgrims looking forward to their eternal inheritance.Living as a pilgrim means giving allegiance solely to God, following the example of Jesus who prioritized His Father's will above all else. Dr. Beeke encourages Christians to wake up each day with the goal of living for the glory of God, acknowledging His presence in every moment. This mindset, often referred to as living 'Coram Deo,' requires Christians to remain grounded in God's Word and focused on His glory, rather than being swayed by worldly distractions.Hebrews 13:14 (NKJV): "For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come."