Today’s scripture: Lamentations 3:19-25 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts on this passage (Jenni Clarkson):
The book of Lamentations isn’t widely known for its encouragement. Traditionally considered to have been authored by the prophet Jeremiah after the fall of Jerusalem and destruction of the city in 587 BC, it is largely a visceral response to the Hebrews’ loss. As a student of 20th century poetry, I can say that Sylvia Plath had nothing on Jeremiah. Surely Jeremiah was intimately familiar with what we call the “dark night of the soul.” Yet, in the midst of this book of woe, comes one of the most beautifully encouraging passages I know.
A favorite old hymn called “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” echoes this passage from Lamentations. The chorus says, “Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning, new mercies I see.”
Lamentations reminds me that “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” is a song not just to sing when things are going well, but also when nothing is going well. I’ve often heard it said, “there are only two times to praise God: when you feel like it — and when you don’t!” Though I may “remember my affliction and my wandering,” and my soul may be “downcast within me,” I have hope.
As Christians, we have great reason for hope. Our hope is in the One who loves us. It is God’s love for us that sustains us, that is the very reason we are not consumed, for God’s compassions never fail.
Thought for today: Even after the worst night, dawn comes again. God’s mercies are new every morning. Call this to mind, and have hope.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to start, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.