--Lamentations 3:21-23(KJV)
A Word of Comfort for the Distressed, Troubled Soul
The book of Lamentations in the Bible was written by the prophet Jeremiah. He was notably coined "The Weeping Prophet" because he was no stranger to despair. Lamentations 3 is an expressive account of a heart that is overwhelmed and distressed. Jeremiah pulls no punches in the reading; he is honest and forthright about his present emotional state. Yet, the way he navigates his way through the depths of despair is fascinating--he takes his heart to the Father. Then, he does something interesting--he recalls. He brings to remembrance the experiential goodness of God. This recollection gives him hope.
What can we, as believers, glean from this Weeping Prophet? When times get hard, and they will, we are never without hope because of the promises of God. Each new day offers us the opportunity to experience the unconditional and unwavering love of God. We maintain our hope in him, because we have at times prior experienced his compassion. His mercy and goodness preempted what was poised to destroy us. Therefore, we were not consumed.
(See the Hebrew word study below.)
May I encourage you today? Whatever emotional distress you may be experiencing--don't lose hope. It is one of your greatest gifts and each new day brings a fresh supply. God promises that you will not be consumed because His love is greater. If you are battling with a spirit of doubt, recall times past in which you were supernaturally (albeit miraculously) sustained by God's steadfast love.
Hebrew Word Study on Lamentations 3:21-22
mind: (H3820/"leb") heart, mind, soul, knowledge, thinking, memory, reflection, seat of emotions, appetites, passion, and courage; conscience, moral character
hope: (H3176/"yachal") hope, trust, tarry, stayed
mercies: (H2617/"checed") kindness, goodness, lovingkindness, mercy, pity
consumed: (H8552/"tamam") finished, destroyed
Prayer:
Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank you for the promises found in Lamentations 3:21-23. We take comfort in knowing that you promise that present distress will not consume us. We place our trust in the truth of your word. Thank you for your unwavering love and compassion. May new found hope hit the heart of each person reading this prayer.
Amen and so be it according to your word.
Hebrew word study from Strong's Exhaustive Concordance