Four Ways to Resist the World’s Influence
LEAVING BABYLON BEHIND
January 5, 2026
Dr. David Talley
BSF Guest Contributor
As we look ahead to a new year, a fresh start, we long to leave the old behind. We embrace the new and step forward in confidence, but old patterns can still get in our way.
As Christians, we often expect to feel free from the world’s influence. But too often, our hearts still struggle to let go. Old patterns emerge. New sin creeps in. And in a culture that feels consuming, we lack the strength to resist.
But in the pages of the Old Testament, God shows us another way.
The real challenge for Israel was not leaving Babylon behind; it was letting God remove Babylon from their hearts.
When the Israelites returned to Jerusalem after 70 years of exile in Babylon, you might think that stepping back into the promised land was a dream come true. After all, exile was the consequence of disobedience—surely coming home meant a fresh start.
Not so fast. The real challenge for Israel was not leaving Babylon behind; it was letting God remove Babylon from their hearts.
The post-exile books—Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi—portray a people who genuinely wanted to walk with God, yet wrestled with discouragement, weariness, spiritual drift, and the slow pull of compromise—much like us.
Israel’s story reminds us that following the Lord is a lifelong journey. And along the way, we discover that God supplies exactly what we need.
Feeling Distracted? Persevere in the Journey
At first, the return was invigorating. The Israelites laid the temple foundation, and hope seemed unstoppable.
But then life happened. Neighbors opposed them, responsibilities piled up, and daily pressures overshadowed their desire to worship God. Haggai confronted the returned exiles with a piercing question: “Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?” (Haggai 1:4).
They had not rejected God outright—they had simply been distracted.
Evidence of Babylon.
The same is true for us. Spiritual struggles rarely begin with rebellion. They begin when our eyes wander, when responsibilities crowd out prayer, Bible study, and worship. Israel’s drift reminds us that faithfulness relies less on emotional “come to Jesus” moments and more on a journey of steadfast—though faltering—obedience.
So, persevere in your journey!
Seeing Your Failure? Cling to God’s Strength
As more time passed, fruitful progress seemed elusive—if not impossible. The city had been laid waste by enemies who hated the Israelites and their God. The consequences for their past sins were ever before them as they stepped over the rubble.
Evidence of Babylon.
Yet God reminded them: “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6).
Their weakness became the perfect stage for God’s strength. In their weakness, the Spirit would carry them and the work forward. God’s work, done in His ways, accomplishes His purposes. Transformation is not about human effort—it is about trusting Him.
Depend on the Lord’s strength!
Transformation is not about human effort—it is about trusting Him.
Slipping into Old Patterns? Trust God’s Correction
As time went by, Nehemiah found a community slipping into old patterns. Even rebuilding the temple did not solve their struggle. Sabbaths were ignored. Leaders abused power. Idolatry crept in. Nehemiah discovered empty storerooms and neglected responsibilities in the temple and asked, “Why is the house of God neglected?” (Nehemiah 13:11).
Not hated. Not rejected. Not abandoned. Not repurposed. Just … neglected.
Evidence of Babylon.
That is the quiet danger of compromise. It does not announce its arrival. It seeps into routines unnoticed. It justifies itself through busyness, stress, or fatigue. And over time, little compromises become devastating decline. Neglect slowly destroys until its victims are defeated. But, once again, God called His people back. He called them to action by giving them a vision for the future: “But now be strong … and work. For I am with you … The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house … And in this place, I will grant peace” (Haggai 2:4-9).
The Lord reminded them that He had a good plan. Peace was within their reach if they regained their focus and joined in His work.
Engage in the Lord’s work!
Feeling Weary? Align Your Heart Daily
By Malachi’s time, the people were no longer actively rebellious—they were weary and cynical. The return had not produced the glory they imagined. The new temple was not like Solomon’s. The economy lacked blessing. Hopes for a restored kingdom faded. Worship grew stale. Hearts grew cold.
Evidence of Babylon.
They were not running from God—they were simply weary of it all … and of Him. Their offerings were half-hearted, their devotion thin, their faith tired.
Yet, God’s response was tender: “Return to me, and I will return to you” (Malachi 3:7; Zechariah 1:3).
This is not the voice of an angry judge, but of a loving Father calling His children home again.
Realign your heart with God’s heart daily!
He continually invites us toward life, renewal, and intimacy with Him.
Israel’s journey reminds us that faithfulness is not measured by simply getting out of Babylon—it is about allowing God to get Babylon out of us. God does not expect flawless devotion; He desires continuous transformation, daily returning to Him. The Lord understands our distractions, our disappointments, our weariness—but He also refuses to let us settle for a faith that is fading. He continually invites us toward life, renewal, and intimacy with Him.
In all of this, we learn that walking with the Lord is wise and the antidote to our own foolishness. His commitment never wavers. He is faithful! His presence never falters. He is with us!
Coming home to the Lord can be a beautiful moment, full of excitement and dreams. But continuing with the Lord is a lifelong journey of accepting His invitation to trust Him. And through it all, He meets us every step of the way.
About the Author
David Talley is the lead pastor of First Baptist Church of Tellico Village. David is passionate about teaching God’s Word, discipleship, and passing on the faith to the next generation. He has authored or co-authored several books, including The Study of the Old Testament and Maturing the Flock of God. David has been married to his wife, Joni, for 35 years, and they have two adult children, Amanda and Andrew.
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Join BSF’s study Exile & Return: A Time to Build
Dear Pastor David
I just want to say that I keep returning to your encouraging and strengthening «Getting Babylon out of the hearts of God’s people». Thank you!
I now have much more compassion for God’s people, as we struggle with the same.
«Yet God’s response was tender: «Return to me, and I will return to you». This is not the voice of an angry judge, but of a loving Father calling His children home again. Realign your heart with God.
….»continuing with the Lord is a lifelong journey of accepting His invitation to trust Him. And through it all, He meets us every step of the way.»
Very encouraging and offers and better understanding of the book of Haggai and the post Babylon life
能幫助我親近上帝，並調整人生方向
Translation: It can help me draw closer to God and adjust the direction of my life.
This was beautiful
Thank you
I was struggling with the book of Haggai, not understanding the content and purpose of this old testament book included in my BSF study group.
Your writings have helped me to understand better the struggle of the Jewish people, and the application of ” removing Babylon” in my personal life.
Thank you!
This study has come to me at the right time, I didn’t know the church I have been attending every Sunday has been holding me captive until I started feeling unsettled to the point of desiring leave, but I didn’t know how since I was in the leadership. But by the grace of God after a few lessons we have covered on exile and return, I have learnt that I don’t have to be comfortable when the church of Jesus which is me, is being destroyed slowly as I look I have had to move out and refocus my heart to Jesus and together this temple that I am might be rebuilt. I am glad I was courageous to do that.
Dear Hollie and BSF Leaders. For nearly 30 years, the BSF study continues to be a fountain of joy for me and my wife and this year’s study is yet another wonderful example of God’s “treasures & delights” previously undiscovered. As we continue our relocation process from Asia back to the States, BSF is with us through the journey each step of the way. Thank you for your faithfulness as the freshness & refreshing inspiration from God’s Word are carefully stewarded & curated from our Leaders at BSF. My continuing prayer for Hollie, the BSF Board and all Leaders & Staff at BSF is that through your daily, faithful work of teaching God’s Word, our brothers & sisters all across the world would be inspired to step into the calling that God Expects from us…to love Him & to love our neighbors, each in their unique ways. In this season of massive & global confusion & strife, “May His Kingdom Come, May His Will be Done on earth as it is in Heaven”. Thank you for your faithful service to our Master. Sincerely & with much Appreciation!
For me it’s a push not to compromise and a call to let off all distractions and prioritize time with my father.
Thankyou
Thank you for this reminder of what our priorities should be. It is so easy to be distracted by the daily concerns of life in a demanding and complex world. Your thoughts are a wonderful antidote to a sense of “falling away” from faith and trust. Babylon seems always present until one stops and remembers that God’s presence is closer. I appreciate the wisdom you have shared as it offers me a path to let go of Babylon and trust that God is beside me each day.
I really appreciate your encouraging word. I think you are describing my situation right now. I have not rejected God, but rather as I look back, I have become distracted, and at times discouraged because I am not experiencing joy and inspiration as I once did. I have become weary.
I like that you say that our walk is a life long journey, and The Lord is always calling me to return to him. It is by His Spirit, and not by my strength. I think I forget that it is Him working in me.
Thank you
thank you for the info I always enjoy then
God is actively in the business of rebuilding and restoring our fractures lives. The lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh and the pride of life has got us in it’s grip and the babylon in us is luring us away from our first love. We dethrone the Lord at the altar of sacrifice we will loose His blessings and forget and forsake the calling to return and live in His Presence and for His purpose. God is faithful and never forsake us or leave us but is still in the business of rebuilding and restoring our lives.
Thank You, Hollie for making David’s write up available. David, thank you for the Spirit filled. You made me to understand my problem about going back to what I resolved not to do again after every New Year Resolutions. My prayer now is to allow God to remove the Babylon in my heart. With the help of the Holy Spirit, tge Babylon in my heart will be removed to the glory of God in Jesus Christ name. Amen .
Good stuff.
Thank you for sharing this. It is true that our walk with God must be a consistent one and we should not be discouraged by challenges on the way.
Thank you for that reflection.
Thank you David for sharing these reminders and encouragement as we begin the new year. God’s Word remains so very true today – “”Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” I am so encouraged by the way this verse begins in calling us to first be still and remember He is God. I so need to heed tHis counsel to remain focused on and forget not all His benefits.
When I compare the Babylonian exile period and now has no much difference. People are keen on serving themselves than the Almighty loving God, we are not different from Noah’s time too.I am also worried about my children and grand son . None of them believe in salvation or Bible , just to keep up the trend they may attend church. When I talk they mock at me. So I earnestly pray to God for their transformation from Saul to Paul.
Thank you Pastor David, this is a just what the doctor ordered moment for me ! “The quiet danger of compromise does not announce its arrival,
It seeps into routines unnoticed. “
Thank you Lord for the reminder that it is not our own strength but through your spirit you will correct us.
May I be first in line today for your help 🙏🏽
I don’t understand why the Jews did not return to Israel?
They were still influenced by Babylon culture. You can only worship one God! Did they ever return to Israel?
I am so blessed and received strength and encouragement to be steadfast in my faith in Jesus. Thank you so much.
This is the second time I have read this. I am keeping this forever. It is spot on, and applies to to today perfectly in my opinion.
I am a GL and have recently considered not returning in the fall. I felt “burned out” and never having time for myself. Your blog summed up everything I was feeling. Now instead praying about returning next fall, I’m praying to persever in my journey, depending on the Lord for my strength, realiging my heart with God daily, while watching for compromise.Thank you!
This blog was right on time for me. Thanks so very much. I feel as if I just woke up from my distractions!!
Beautiful Reminder in this piece by Dr. Talley, as we launch into continued study of the Old Testament in the BSF Study of Exile and Return in 2026.
Grateful from Vancouver BC Canada
I share similar experiences of going back to Babylon and feelings of frustrations but now I understand God is not done with me yet He is taking the ‘Babylon” off me. Thank God for the transformation He is doing in me.
What a wonderful, beautiful, timely post!!
I gleaned from this!
Please keep using your gift.
It is going forth ten fold!
Good summary and reminder for our BSF study.
Life is full of ups and downs. Trying to balance it all becomes daunting at times yet God is the calming presence in our lives. Thank you for this great summary! As I say often, “ Jesus never takes us out of the storm, He simply calms us in it.” God Bless 🙏
We stumble and fall but God is always there to pick us up and dust us off. Thank you for the reminder. God Bless!
Such a sobering reminder! Making a conscious choice to listen, follow and act is the hardest part of being a believer. Remembering that we are not doing this alone is not only comforting but its what makes up the most exciting part of a believers life. I choose to trust and obey. I will allow the Lord to remove anything in my heart that has become my Babylon and may be causing me to compromise in my Christian walk.
Thank you for this blog. ‘Evidence of Babylon’ can keep creeping back unless I deliberately and intentionally seek God daily. A very encouraging message.
I have been encouraged and reminded to continually renew my intimacy with the Lord by allowing Him to get my Babylon(sin) out of me everyday.
Thank you!
As a TL l was looking for encouragement to begin the New Year with renewed passion to serve my Lord. I wasn’t neglecting but very distracted with busyness.Your blog helped me to once again understand that it’s not me alone, the exiles who returned also faced the same situation. Truly encouraged by….’God does not expect flawless devotion; He desires continuous transformation, daily returning to Him’. Thank you Pastor David.
Encourage by reading this. A good reminder to continually be spending time with God.
Convicted! God always knows when we need to be reminded; this particular article was pointed directly at my life. I greatly need Babylon removed from my heart. God’s timing never fails to amaze me. Thank you!
Very true observation David and thanks for the fresh reminder that we should not neglect God’s ‘house’.For me the key is Matthew6v33 where Christ encouraged his listeners to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.
May I request that the notes be simplified so everyone can enjoy reading them.I found some members give up reading them because they are too long. Let’s trust in God to speak to members through His Word.
Thank you for the reminder that in our weakness, God is our Strength.
Please pray for my continual surrender, in remembrance of what He has done.
Thank you! for the summary thougths and the encouragement. It seems to be getting harder as I get older ~ more distraction and more weariness. The world around us is strong to pull us down and under…and even praying for so many loved ones and tough situations seems hard. “Cast your cares” isn’t that easy but in continuing to do that, and persevering with God, He does give us our daily bread! And we are strengthened to attend to God’s agenda, leaving the outcome in His mighty hands.
What a great message to focus on as our AIM as we study the last half of the exile and return. It’s our heart that God desires. Jeremiah tells us that God knows our heart.
Do as I go thru the lessons, I need to tease out the encouraging words that God has for His people then and for me today.
Love this, Pastor Talley. So, encouraging as I press on in this ever- changing world. Thank you. I pray to continue being transformed by His Holy Spirit and not this Babylon I live in.
This is the best king of “pep talk!” Very encouraging, full of truth. Thank-you Pastor Talley!
Surely may God wash away the Babylon in us.
This is truly a word in season. May the transforming power of God’s’ word continue to work in me.
Great article! Trusting God’s Correction is not always easy, but necessary for His greatness in our lives. Our transformation is a testimony of His Goodness for others to see and respond to God with a resounding yes to follow Jesus!
Thank you. As I go along the path, sometimes I let the world pull me down. But I know that God is always there, wooing me back, sometimes through his discipline, but always through his love. This has been a good blog.
Powerful words. They are also encouraging to keep on keeping on. To trust and obey for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey.
I am so grateful to have been blessed to be apart of the BSF Family. I have learned a great deal since being a member. God is real to me even more! Thank God for BSF Family!!! I look forward to continuous learning daily!
How great is our God that He guides us in unexpected ways! Jesus is truly our good Shepard, and His sheep know His voice. Not only is He worthy to be praised, but worthy to be trusted. Thank you very much for the above post. It is truly relevant for a time such as this.
As I go through Exile and Return, I am learning a great deal about the current concerns facing our churches. Human nature remains the same now as it was then. My concern for the Church is the slow and steady changes over time that dilute our commitment to our Lord. Seems like we want to be entertained more than our desire to instill His word into our hearts and minds. The idea is to spend quality time with God through prayer, worship, bible study, and meditation. This will allow us to establish a unique relationship with God that will allow anyone of us to be ready to serve and become a vessel for his plan. To lean on Him and not be entertained by TV series, movies, music, or coffee shops in church lobbies, light shows during worship singing. ( I know, I am venting, but so were the prophets we are studying.) I will continue to pray for our Churches and leaders to stay on course. Grace and Peace to you all.
Amen!
Thank you for the encouragement of a daily time with the Lord and staying strong to build relationships. This morning I read, the more time I spend with Him, the more evident in my life He will become. ‘. Not word for word but what it meant to me.
And the changes in my life will be evident.
I never thought about it this way. Praying God removes Babylon from me
I feel very Blessed to have been introduced to BSF. Through these studies I’m learning to trust in God and finding it a life long journey filled with love, happiness, trust.
Thank you for sending David Talleys message.
Excellent blog! I belong to Harriet ‘s online class and we are Persevering Women of Faith. I like how he encouraged us to persevere in our journey of faith, and spiritual growth! I like his point to Trust Jesus in All things in my transformation life for Him! Ty!
This devotion really encouraged me at a much-needed time. I really loved the how you put the words “The real challenge for Israel was not leaving Babylon behind; it was letting God remove Babylon from their hearts.” That really sent a ping to my heart, it paints a clearer picture for me of Gods desire in my life. Wow, emptying Babylon from my heart.
God bless and thank you!
I had the same response. Reminded me of verses from our TL’s lecture this week. Our heart problem is sin” She read verses from Colossians 3.
The blog by Dr David Talley was wonderful 😊
I am glad I read through & I now have a clearer picture of the post -exile books.
God bless you more & thank you 🙏🏾
I have been convinced for sometime that being transformed is spoken of in the passive voice, re. Romans 12:2 and 2 Corinthians 3:18.
I feel that Dr. Tally’s comments in this article regarding transformation have affirmed this and BSF’s goal for me. Thank you, I am blest!
The blog by Dr. David Talley was wonderful, uplifting and informative.
Thank you!
Evidence of Babylon justifies itself through busyness, stress, fatigue!!! Our modern-day challenges. Thank you for this reminder.
Thank you for this encouraging message.
This is truly timely. As I study Exile & Return, it is the grace of God that continues to overcome any weak spots in me. His love and protection are made evident by all that He provides to the Israelites to strengthen their spiritual frailties and I am assured that He does the same for me!
Great message! I want God to get Babylon out of me. This is a good reminder that regular intimacy with God and walking with Him is the antidote to foolishness and the wise choice to make. Thank you!!
Thank you for words of encouragement. Psalm:119:105 your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
It sound very simple to leave behind the past but every thought brings me right back. Trusting God and getting up with a new thought and making it come true is my goal. My heart has been in pain for two years. Studying Esther is giving the confidence to trust in the Lord and understand that pain is not forever. Looking forward for a new dawn.
Excellent reading! I would like this in a printed form as a daily reminder of gradually regressing….
Great revelation. Our walk with God matters. Following God is a life long journey. I am blessed
What a timely message from God’s word. Thank you for sharing. I enjoyed what you had to say. God bless you as you continue to serve Him.
I needed to hear what you said.
Excellent message with many points to remind us of how to look forward & be positive in our faith & direction. Never give up!!
Thank you with encouragement for you to continue on your mission.
BSF student from Nazareth PA.
It is good to be reminded that God does not give up on us. It’s reassuring that He continues to work in our lives.
Our weakness becomes God’s strength very reassuring. It’s never about us but about God’s work in us.
Praise God for this article that reminded me of God’s relentless pursuit of His children and our transformation!
Only God can truly draw us back and closer to His perfect character! Knowing His perfect character is truly encouraging, while trustfully obeying Him and awaiting our eternal dwelling place with Him forever!
This was so inspiring! God’s Word lifts us up and provides comfort.
Thank you Rev Talley for writing and publishing this article. It was very informative and timely because of our current study. God bless you and your family and all of us as we strive to live for Him in 2026.
I pick a word for the new year. 2025’s word was and still is JOY. 2026’s word is TRUST. Reading the above just solidified that TRUST is definitely my word for 2026. Depend and Trust in Him. Thank you.
Love it! TRUST in Him with all your heart – 2026. Lean not on your own understanding and He will direct thy paths. I want Him to direct my paths, because I’m not very good at it without Him. :- )
Pastor Talley is certainly spot on with his blog regarding getting the Babylon out of us. Distraction is the perfect word for our drift away from daily immersion in God’s word. I must say, I had never read the book of Ester before and became so wrapped up in the story I could not stop until I finished the book, ahead of our BSF lessons. I suppose that could thankfully be an example of ignoring the draw of Babylon on me today.
Thank you for your encouragement and reminder of how much we can drift back to old ways.
This article is so timely. It’s so easy to get tired, loose focus and slip into old patterns. I am grateful that God is not get tired and faithful. He is not just taking me out of Babylon(old tendencies, habits etc) but rather he is taking Babylon out of me.
What is amazing is that these lessons are planned in advance. Ever since I joined BSF the lesson each session pertains to the time we’re living in, or ‘for such a time as this.’ God is amazing. Thank you BSF.
Mary, I couldn’t agree with you more. God knows what we need to get through each season in life.
I loved reading this blog. The message reminded me of God’s unconditional love for me and His GREAT Faithfulness toward me. Encouraged me in many of my way and endeavors. And gave me new hope.
Israel’s journey reminds us that faithfulness is not measured by simply getting out of Babylon—it is about allowing God to get Babylon out of us. Is a reminder to me of what is important, especially for such a time as this in the world. 🙏s for all.
Amen- amen.
Thank you for your encouragement!
I have learned so much in BSF this session and today Blog writer took it all up another notch and made it personal. Powerful reflections and reminders and I have some thinking to go do as God grows me up in so many areas – to be used in his service. Exciting.
Thank you for the inspiration and just reminding me of what is needed in my life.
What a timely message! As we each embark on a new year with bright eyes, some anticipate a “fresh start” with goals and visions. Yet often, we get a few weeks in and find ourselves losing that spark and motivation because we’re hit from every side by responsibilities. Compromise creeps in slowly until we fall back into our old ways, feeling discouraged, tired, and defeated. This message reminds me to cling to my Redeemer, the one who provides all I need to remain steadfast in my journey.
I can resonate with this. As we are reminded to return back to Him and He will return back to us, it is not by our might but by His Spirit. In our weaknesses He gives us strength
Thank you for this excellent overview. Facing a New Year, it is a time for our renewal. Like the Israelites leaving Babylon behind, we can leave behind the distractions in life that take our focus off of our loving God.
Thank you for this encouraging message to stay focused on God and His ways not on what I want or what my sinful self too often focuses on. Thank
The Exile and Return bible study has been rewarding and has developed my walk with God in a more consistent way. As I become more knowledgable of who God is and what He wants from me, I sense Him in my daily conversations and my daily interactions with people that God puts in my path. His word is so rich from cover to cover with so much that He wants to show us and to tell us. This bible study through BSF is showing me that and giving me courage to live in all parts of my life that the Lord has given me.
Thanks. Tom
I am absolutely loving this study! Thank you so much to the ones who worked hard to put it together. It brings so many “bits and pieces” I have learned through the years into a cohesive story and highlights God’s sovereignty all along the way. I am looking forward to the next few months!!
These words are just what I needed to hear to remind me of our loving heavenly Father who only wants the best for His children. I pray my eyes are open to my own blindness and go forward pursuing God and His will for my life, not looking back but forward to all that He is teaching me.
I should post these steps on my mirror and follow them daily… we think we know the plan to press forward with Jesus, but life interrupts us so easily with things that seem urgent and require attention but take our eyes off of the One who can move us forward in His grace, with joy and thanksgiving.
Very good article. Something I really needed to hear today. Thank you.
Evidence of Babylon should always be on my mind as I scour my heart to find and root out those things that can bring me back to Babylon. I am so grateful for this blog in the midst of my studying the return from exile. It’s so true their hearts are deceitful and desire to seek after Babylon once more. If I feel relaxed and comfortable,, I know there’s something wrong. And so I press on seek out evidence of Babylon
Profound!
I’m challenged and encouraged.
Amazing message and inspiring. A great reminder for the new year. Thank you.
Thank you for this inspiring and thought provoking selection. I always enjoy his insight into the Scriptures.
Thank you for the blog, a wonderful insight into OT struggles, that we see in our own lives today. A great reminder to draw us back to God, in His peace, we can be victorious in our walk. Love all those who dedicate themselves to BSF.
I was blessed to be reminded of my need for daily communion with God through devotion and prayer.
God is truly transforming me especially in the BSF study. In 2025 God revealed my lack of patience and allowed me to realize how patient He is. I am so thankful for His patience and will continue to keep that as my focus so it may grow stronger. This year I feel Trust in Him should be elevated from knowing to exercising Trust in Him. Galations 5:22 (NET) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,” I know that trusting in Him completely is impossible for me, but through the Holy Spirit in me I am being transformed day by day. Thanks be to God!
Looking forward to receiving Exile and Return: A Time to Build. Thank you.
Amazing how this came up after my last conversation with my BSF leader. Being pulled in every direction and you feel you have no time, no energy, and just not feeling like anyone is helping you. I am feeling renewed after reading most of this and printed it out so I can take it home and read it again and pray for God’s strength and showing me what I need to do. I can’t do it by myself. I am only one person and tons needs to be done with family, friends and work and the stress, my plate is full and gravy is starting to flow over but not yet. God has me. Thank you Lord. I feel you and will follow you where you want me to go and be, please guide me as you have always done for me and others! AMEN
I always enjoy and receive wonderful direction from the blogs you send us to read….thank you!! This one in particular “ministered” to right where I am…..God has got my “mail” right! (the blog by David Talley) I never considered how the Babylon in me has me focused on insignificant things that truly do not matter in the vast Kingdom of God and keep my focus away from Him and what really matters for my good and the Lord’s glory. Praise Him for His faithfulness that NEVER gives up on us!!
Thank you so much for this encouraging word today. It was just what my weary soul needed as a reminder. BSF and my wonderful leader who has been a prayer warrior for me these past years has carried me through many difficulties.
Thank you! This article was perfect to read at the start of the new year. Love the perspective of God being the one to work Babylon out of the Israelites.
A very good application to my life. Life experiences and small habits take me away from God and weariness creeps in. Such a wonderful reminder to come back to God in repentance. He is always ready to receive me in whatever state of brokeness that I am in. Thank you Lord for this great love.
Yes, coming home to the Lord is a beautiful moment, full of excitement and dreams. But continuing with the Lord is a lifelong journey of accepting His invitation to trust Him.
What an inspirational read! I especially was encouraged by Rev. Talley’s closing words, “Coming home to the Lord can be a beautiful moment, full of excitement and dreams. But continuing with the Lord is a lifelong journey of accepting His invitation to trust Him. And through it all, He meets us every step of the way.”
Thank you for this message and thank you for BSF!
Thank you so much for all the hard work you all put into the Bible studies each week. To read and study Gods word with the questions helps me to see the over all picture of the history and how God speaks to us daily as we follow him.
Keep doing what you do. May the Lord bless daily.
So pertinent, so real.
Thanks for verbalizing the Christian walk so vividly real. Yet, there is so much encouragement from the Word to remind us, our Father meets us every step of the way.
Happy New Year! I am eternally grateful to God for BSF, I don’t have enough words to express my gratitude. At 4 AM( unusual for me to be awake) I just woke up and decided to check my messages(also unusual for me)
I saw this message from Hollie Roberts, then I read the blog by
Dr.David Tailey. Such a powerful recap as it encourages me to press on and trust God to complete the work that He has started in me for His glory. He alone can remove the Babylon. I am looking forward to meeting with my BSF group (my other family who God has blessed me with)
Thank you Hollie, thank you Dr.Tailey! Thank you for allowing God to use you as His instrument.God bless you and it is my prayer for God to continue being your source of strength and wisdom along the journey.
Gloria.
This blog is so timely and it’s the some replicate of our daily lives, most times we struggle to let go of very many things that keep us a way from the good works of God in our lives, In Africa we have a proverb that you can get a villager from the village but it’s hard to remove the village from them. This is the reflection of the Blog, may the Lord almighty help us to be aligned accordingly and not to miss him out in our Lives, may He work his ways in us.
Wow, I completely needed this today! I’m not one for clicking on additional things, always behind on correspondence, etc. but SO very glad to read this reminder to reset my thinking and reset my year for recommitment and realignment of my faith journey…I had 6 weeks of respiratory illness that blew out all my carefully constructed inner list of priorities and tasks, so it was no accident that I collapsed into bed by 7pm after a long day of unaccustomed physical work and woke up before 3am – He was reminding me and inviting me back to a routine of JESUS & coffee and then other things instead of COFFEE, email, fb and Jesus somewhere in the mix. Blessings to you for all you do for us in BSF!
How easy for me to get distracted, and this is an impactful reminder to persevere in my walk with God. It is about trusting Him and depending on His strength! I need to realign my heart with God on a daily basis through studying his Word. My prayer is to grow in intimacy with him this year.
Thank you for your post David – so well stated, and especially helpful in providing context, insight and perspective as we journey in these books. In the words of a former governor of New Mexico – “Ya done good!” brother.
Great. On time and on point.
This is a great encouragement at the start of the year.
Often times we’ve found ourselves where the Israelites are at different stages in life but what a reassurance from this blog about about God’s faithfulness and not giving up !
Thank you Pastor Talley for your encouragement in this article at the start of this year, 2026! Thank you Hollie for sharing this article.
Its so true that our lives are so distracted from so many things in all stages of our lives, be it work, stress, family, happenings around us in this world. Christians grow very tired and weary, our faith may even grow faint and deminished chocked by this sinfulness in this world that we live in.
Your article reminds me to continue to pray daily to ask the Lord for directions, re-submit myself to Him daily so that i may not be distracted, remain faithful, trusting that the Lord is by my side, and He is fulfulling His promises to us.
“The real challenge for Israel was not leaving Babylon behind; it was letting God remove Babylon from their hearts.”
“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6).
“Return to me, and I will return to you” (Malachi 3:7; Zechariah 1:3)
This is really powerful
Especially where the lord says: return to me and I will return to you
Sometimes my spiritual journey does feel weary. But waking up each day is a blessing, as my heart continues to grow and trust in the Lord and keeps me looking forward. And in this New Year I will make every effort to follow my heart and trust in the Lord. Like many of my customers say, “We are blessed, we woke up on the green side.” That is a true blessing, to love the Lord with all our heart.
Loved the blog, very encouraging.
Loved the message from Babylon.
It is filled with encouraging statements for my walk with God.
Thank you BSF for keeping me in the WORD.
Thank you for this message
God removes Babylon from our lives.
Help us to be faithful to serve God undeterred by our daily juggles in Jesus name Amen.
Hello David! Good stuff here… I’m a very old friend of your dad (I was Pastor at Faith Chapel, Birmingham, AL) and more recently your older brother. I knew you when you’re a very, very young man. Keep up the good work!! Loved your dad very much he was an amazing encourgment to me at a very difficult time in my life. He showed me GRACE when so many didn’t.
Pastor Rich Teeters, NJ
“The BSF notes are an absolute eye-opener and rich in knowledge. Even after reading the books, I could not grasp them the way these notes and blogs bring such clear understanding. All glory be to God. Let us continue to grow together and take this message to the ends of the earth.”
Thank you for this wonderful message. Forever grateful, God showed me another way.
Such timely wisdom in Dr. Talley’s words – especially the part about our gracious God does not expect flawless devotion but instead seeks our continuous transformation through daily time spent with Him. Praying for all believers that 2026 will be a year of dwelling with God and not drifting from Him. In the high and Holy name of Jesus, Amen!
Thank you for this encouraging message of Hope. May our Heavenly Father strengthen us each day in this journey through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Happy New Year!
I love these thoughts! Pehaps my favorite was:
It was not enough for God to take them out of Babylon. He needed then to take the Babylon out of them
.
Such a great reminder of the reality of our own lives and the continuing steadfast hope we have in God’s grace and love.
I enjoyed this because it reminds us that none of us is perfect and that God doesn’t expect us to be. He just expects us to keep coming back to Him, and He will change us into who He created us to be.
Thank you Hollie for your encouragement and greeting
The article by David Talley has so much substance for me to chew and digest.
Looking forward so much to conclude Esther 8-10 and also the rest of the studies – Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi which portray a people who genuinely desired to walk with God.
Press on, finish well to all my OGLs and GLs. 🙏🫶
Dr. David Talley’s insights compels me to reset my heart and bring me deeper into the mysteries of God’s love and grace. Thank you very much.
A heart and mind shaking article – the apostles and prophets is still amongst us – and the SPIRIT of GOD .
Such encouragement! Thank you for sharing this with us.
Thankyou for that encouraging God’s word nd the message 🙏. Very strengthening as we are weary these days. let God’s strength carry us.
I needed to hear this – God’s response to His tired and weary people:
“Yet, God’s response was tender: “Return to me, and I will return to you”. This is not the voice of an angry judge, but of a loving Father calling His children home again.”
Thank you.
Yes I would like to read the blog.
Grateful to be part of BSF I was invited about four weeks ago. Thankful to learn and grow deeper in my trust for the LORD God maker of heaven and earth.
Thank you for being committed to sharing the loving gracious message of our LORD much grace Lt
Thank you so much for these words of encouragement! I needed to hear this to remind and inspire me to continue to persevere in my ongoing surrender to God each and every minute of each and every day! It’s so easy to become distracted but if I practice looking up (instead of in) the Holy Spirit will guide my attentions. Thank you, BSF leadership!
It reminds me that growing in faith is a journey. It’s not just about changing my surroundings, but truly letting go of old habits and letting God change my hearts. It encourages me to keep going, even when I feel weak or distracted, because God is there to support me. In the end, it calls me to keep returning to God for renewal and strength, showing His constant love for me.
So wonderfully stated. To God be all the glory,!
We pray God’s transformation for us be believed and received inwardly by His grace through faith in His living word displayed outwardly. In the Mighty Matchless Name of Jesus Christ, Amen!
Thank you for allowing Holy Spirit to unction you, leading you in all truth. Amen!
This blog was such a great reminder of where our priorities should be. Yes, we falter and fail at times, but God is so gracious and merciful to continually call us back. This has happened to me in the past and I am so grateful that God never gave up on me. My focus is on Him more now and it does make a huge difference. Thank you for sharing this great message.
Thank you. Loved this article. Very needed.😊✝️
BSF’s teaching is such a breath of fresh air.
Always expounding the Bible in such a way that its relevance in our daily lives today is made evident. It doesn’t matter whether it’s the old testament or new there is always a message for us today.
God bless all contributors in Jesus name.
This is most encouraging and Spiritually challenging.
The blog is quite encouraging calling us to trust God in everything.
I really enjoyed this blog and it’s very timely for starting a new year. It was very encouraging and spurred me on to keep trusting Him and not getting discouraged.
I loved this blog, it was very enlightening.
I found this article very encouraging indeed as becoming a child God has always been a blessing to me and I’ve so much trust in Jesus Christ who I have believed in. It is my prayer that I continue walking very closely with God and may He continue taking out of me any reminders of Babylon so that I build a much stronger relationship with God and continuous transformation and commitment and opportunities to serve in His vineyard for His Glory.
I now understand how it’s easy to drift to the world . I pray that I be able to persevere n trust God in every challenge.
Thank you for the timely reminders that are all true in my walk with God and for making me realize the need for God to refresh and strengthen me continually.
A very good reminder that life is often hard and, in our busyness, and distraction we can forget what God has in mind for us. Let us get better at stopping, pausing and remembering God’s purpose for our lives.
I found this article very encouraging. Thank you Hollie for sharing!
The world is so filled with distractions!! Thank you for this perspective which has blessed me with a challenge for this new year.
Very refreshing indeed!!! I am encouraged to stay connected to the Triune God daily, not only through the study of God’s Word but also to gain proper perspectives and vibrant examples on how to stay the course with the Lord and live for Him in a manner that gladdens His heart.
Ezra stands out as an all-round hero for me.I have seen and felt the Lord help me to trust Him in situations similar to Ezra’s and I am greatly humbled and grateful.
Thank you very much,Pastor Talley,for sharing your God-given insights with us.
To our Sovereign Lord Alone be All the Glory,Forever. Amen!!!
Thank you for this beautiful, “right-on” response; I can truly relate!
I think the author is very truthful in his presentation. Our lives need to be out of Babylon. We can’t be just content with a Christian lifestyle that is not true to the base of the Gospel. Thank you for sharing these great thoughts.
So very relevant as we, once again, forge ahead in our journey to eternal life. The New Year may bring a sense of ‘reset’ to life. It’s the ‘resume’ that concerns our God. Your teaching soundly reminds us to leave Babylon behind, abandon our old selves and genuinely seek God’s purpose.
Only Jesus can get Babylon out of me through the work of the Holy Spirit in me. My job is to learn to rely on Him and to walk with him.
Thank you so much for the sharing, and it really serves as a good reminder.
Thank God for His faith servant , May God Blessed you to continue to serve Him faithfully
Excellent Hollie! Thank you for sharing David’s blog with us.
Thank you for the encouraging note.
This article lifted my spirit. I was discouraged by events happening around me and I felt in my erroneous understanding that God was too slow in making things happen as He promised. The point that more than home coming, continuing the journey by trusting the Lord was very encouraging.
God bless your work.
What a great reminder that this is a lifelong journey. And God is with us every step of the way. And it’s not enough to come out of Babylon but to allow God to get the Babylon out of us. Love this.
Thank you for David Talley’s thorough description of the conditioned minds of the exiled Israelites. I saw and am experiencing in our own church and homes these attitudes of discouragement. It frightens me but thank God for His discerning Spirit working in me and the prayers BSF continues to involve us in. I am a great grandmother participating in the classes. I’m learning so much about myself even at this late age.
There’s no question about God’s promise to ‘Never leave me nor forsake me’ Thank you again. And praise God for HIS faithfulness.
I needed to read this! I have multiple heath issues & have become discouraged due to overwhelming fatigue & what seems like a plateau in my getting better. This really hit me pretty hard. It also gave me direction & hope. Thank you, David Talley. You read my mind!
With our own power it’s not easy to get Babylon out of as, but as our Lord promised
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.
Thanks for sharing,
Thanks for encouraging words
Beautifully written! Powerfully convicting. Thank you!
CS
This has caught my attention, God removes Babylon (flesh) from our hearts 🙌
This blog comes at a very good time of letdown after a long holiday season and break where the wiles of the world may have recaptured our inherent loss of focus on Him.
Oh, how I love Jesus. Oh, how I love Jesus, because He first loved me. Dr. Talley’s “Four Ways to Resist the World’s Influence – Leaving Babylon Behind.” has inspired me. I will use this article as a resource for further study. Thank you BSF!
Excellent word that really blessed my soul. Thank you!!
Thank you for the spiritually encouraging ‘meals’ that you send. Keep up the good work in Him.
I enjoyed the construction of this teaching because it helped me understand what was the “evidence of Babylon” and how to overcome that “evidence.” It was clear what my part was to “get Babylon out of my heart.”
I will read this author again.
A good reminder for all of us. Our God is with us on our life’s journey growing and sanctifying us along the way.
Exactly what I needed to hear! It is so hard to get the Babylon out of me. Thank you for the renewed perspective.
Thank you for the lessons, words that change peoples lives. GODS TRUTH UNDERSTOOD, and sealed in our 💕 hearts forever, into eternity.
Thank you for that view of the real issues. I am encouraged knowing that the simple things can derail all of us and that God gets it. I needed those reminders. So good.
I was deeply convicted by the section on Neglect. I have seen firsthand how I have justified it “through busyness, stress or fatigue.” I appreciate this insight and will respond to God’s Call to Action, with His help, knowing He is with me all the way. PTL
This is now the second BSF blog in a row to make no mention of Jesus Christ. Is this study intended to be Christ-less?
Hi, Jim! Thank you for asking that question. While our latest blog doesn’t mention Christ directly, our Exile & Return study has revealed how much the Old Testament points to Him. In fact, check out our latest devotional to see how each book in the study reveals a gift Christ gives His people!
Happy New Year, Thank you for the Blog. How true it is, it is what we want to do. But what calls us for Him to do it for Him. I learned this a that it Takes The Holy Spirit to remove from our hearts what is no of God. But we have to ask Him for Help. Great Blog.
I think we can all be guilty of living a busy life where our devotion to Father God is replaced with a to-do list. I thank God that He showed me, over time, that all things will be accomplished when we put Him first. Thank you for this reminder that Jesus is Supreme. He walks us through our busyness with a call to rest in Him.
Thank you for reminding us how faithful god is and how much he really loves us all!!!
Thank you for your sharing and wonderful insight.
I am always rushing through life. I am thankful I took the time for this great read. Very encouraging. I will pass it on.
This blog is timely! I agree with Kimberly wholeheartedly. I’m thankful God highlighted the calculated distractions and reminded me the Holy Spirit is with me. I simply need to allow HIM to lead, guide and direct me.
Thanks for sharing!!!
Loved” Truth even when it’s spoken,
It is not always heard!
Great Messages!
Thank You!
It was good reading this blog. It reviewed the current BSF study I’ve been doing after the break, simply and helped me look forward to reconnecting with the group I’m privileged to be involved in. Thank you, bless you
Your article has made me see new things in the Scriptures you made reference to. Practical ways to apply them to my life. How wonderful indeed is God’s Word, full of Wisdom throughout all history.
I really sense God’s encouragement through this piece and appreciated Pastor Talley’s insights about letting God take Babylon out of our hearts. His exhortations to come to God daily was very encouraging.
Thank you! Much needed reminders of Gods love and the pursuit of His people.
I really enjoyed this blog. It hit home because last year I was feeling discouraged and somewhat tired. This gave me a new edge to persevere and continue the journey God has for me. Thank you.
I am facing the difficult task of breaking some very bad habits. Your article reminded me that God will do the heavy lifting when I draw on my faith in Him and engage prayerfully on the knees of my heart.
Thanks for the spark!!!
Georgia
How beautifully written! I myself am on this journey of full devotion and realigning my heart with God. Walking with the Lord daily is wise for certain, and the best antidote to my own foolish desires…I so agree!
I will ask all my group to take in this 7 min read. It reminds us all to stay faithful and not grow weary. The Blessings from the Lord are in the faithfulness and having a steadfast heart for Him.
What a timely blog! I am so thankful for the excellent encouragement I really needed after a crazy few weeks! Thank you!
I loved how you relayed the information that it was not the problem of getting out pf Babylon but it was the challenge of letting God get Babylon out of us. Sometimes we are so engulfed in old habits, that they seem impossible to let them go. That is when you know that on your own, you cannot let go, but you need the Holy Spirit of God to cleanse us of all unrighteousness. I praise God for His patience with us. We are lost without Him and we are spritually defeated, Thanks for the Encouraging Word.
Thank you so much. What a timely message and reminder on old habits. I really need the Holy spirit to help me let go, else on my own I can’t do a thing. No wonder the Bible reminds me always that with man(me) nothing is possible, but with God all things are possible and I can do away with old habits through christ who strengthens me.
man’s natural tendency is to disengage the clutch and the wheels stop. We must keep the clutch engaged in order for our hearts to keep the wheels moving. Engage with God constantly
Amazing, God is faithful. Thank you for this mesage, very inspiring. Hallelujah
Inspired article that correctly articulates the challenges and trials I face daily in my journey of faith. May the Lord remove Babylon from my heart and help me trust and obey Him wholeheartedly. Only He can help me overcome worldly attractions and influences.
Love this perspective…thanks.
great words thank you for sharing
Thanks for this encouraging message which chimes with my heart and how God is leading and changing me through His Word and Spirit each day.
Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Thank you for this beautiful insight !!
Thank you for the encouragement!