Psalm 128 is a song that was literally sung by the children of Israel as they traveled up the hills to the old city of Jerusalem for their annual feasts and celebrations. It was a song of joy celebrating God’s blessing on vocation, home and family. One of the things they sang about was the prosperity of the city they loved…Jerusalem. Let’s read it.

“How joyful are those who fear the Lord—all who follow his ways! You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. How joyful and prosperous you will be. Your wife will be like a fruitful grapevine, flourishing within your home. Your children will be like vigorous young olive trees as they sit around your table. That is the Lord’s blessing for those who fear him. May the Lord continually bless you from Zion. May you see Jerusalem prosper as long as you live. May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. May Israel have peace!”

Though Jerusalem holds a special place in the hearts of many Christians, most of us don’t live in Jerusalem. God wants to prosper us in the city where we physically live. Practically speaking…we need jobs. Our neighbors need jobs. Our children will need jobs. It is Biblical too. When Jeremiah was speaking of God’s desires for the Children of Israel in exile, he commissioned them to seek the prosperity of the city in which they were living.

Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Jeremiah 29:7

Many Christians are fond of stating that heaven is their home and they are just visitors here on earth. Though this is true in the light of eternity, God’s desire is for us to see the cities, villages and towns in which we live prosper.