With today’s situations and events that show the evil side of humanity I am often discouraged. The writer of the book of Lamentations has an encouraging message and I’ve been reading and rereading it a lot lately. In the middle of this weeping prophet’s message he reminds us of the goodness of the Lord!
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him’” (Lamentations 3:22-24).
Each day is another chance to do better. Another chance to change my attitude and look for how God is working. There are those who take a stand for righteousness and truth. God is using people to be the salt and light we need today. Even the President of our great country recognizes we must depend on God for our salvation and not the government! God is faithful and I am encouraged.
“Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men” (Lamentations 3:32-33).
God is not the cause of our grief. Sin is. The problem lies in the hearts of people. The solution requires a change of heart. Only God can change hearts. Only God can bring peace out of chaos.
“Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord. Let us lift up our hearts and our hands to God in heaven, and say: ‘We have sinned and rebelled and you have not forgiven’” (Lamentations 3:40-42).
God is compassionate, loving, faithful, and ready to forgive. (See 2 Chronicles 7:14) May we be prayerful, faithful, compassionate, loving, and repentant. The prophet trusted God to take up his cause against his enemies. We should, too. Pray for wisdom and courage to stand for truth. Ask God to search our hearts and purify us. Make us ready to be the light the world desperately needs. Be encouraged by what God is doing.
“You came near when I called you, and you said, ‘Do not fear.’ O Lord, you took up my case; you redeemed my life. You have seen, O Lord, the wrong done to me. Uphold my cause!” (Lamentations 3:57-59)
“Restore us to yourself, O Lord” (Lamentations 5:21a)
First, AMEN. I do so agree with you.
Second, I am glad that you are finding encouragement not only in Scripture but in the lives of real people who are stepping up.
Blessings to you and your family. Thanks so much for that lovely photo you posted of our flag…on your porch waving to the WV hills.