I have been deprived of peace; I have forgotten what prosperity is.

So I say, "my splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the LORD."

I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. 

I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.

Yet I call this to mind and therefore I have hope; 

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.

Lamentations 3:17-23, NIV (1978)

 

After the people of Israel and Judah had rebelled against God. After they had taken part in some of the most vile sin ever recorded. After they had been warned over and over by the prophets of God. After they suffered through captivity and siege and famine. After their holy city had been destroyed for their unholy conduct.

 

After all of that, Jeremiah, the prophet of God, was sent with one more message: God still loved them and His compassions never fail.

 

This gave the people comfort in the midst of pain, joy in the midst of sorrow, and hope in the midst of what had been here to for been complete and utter hopelessness. What do you think such a message would do for a person lost in sin if they would only repent and come back to God?

 

What would such a message of hope do for your life?

 

The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. 

And they that know Thy name will put their trust in Thee;

For Thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek Thee.

Psalms 9:9-10, KJV (1864)

 

Today is day 17 of the 30 day challenge to read through the books of the prophets of God, with Lamentations being the reading for today. May God richly bless you as you repent of your sins and turn back to His love and compassion!