The Weekly Word - A Devotion for the Week of November 14
Biblical experts surmise that the Book of Lamentations was written by Jeremiah, a prophet who was called by God to guide the Jews during a period of great upheaval and suffering. Jeremiah’s work began under King Josiah, a fair ruler, but it continued throughout the reign of several evil leaders, including Babylonian ruler Nebuchadnezzar, who mandated the destruction of Jerusalem and the holy temple.
It was, in short, a terrible time for both Jeremiah and the Jewish people, who suffered through famine, death, destruction and exile. In the Book of Lamentations Jeremiah mourned alongside his people, and yet, we also see in these verses that his confidence in God’s compassion and love never wavered. In the midst of Jeremiah’s sorrow is this declaration of faith and hope in God’s promise to His people.
It’s not easy to stay hopeful in the midst of great pain and suffering. In our struggles, we might begin to doubt God’s goodness. We might wonder where He is or why He is not alleviating our hardship. But Jeremiah reminds us that God’s mercy, love and compassion for us never falter or diminish. We may not be able to discern His presence and His love in the moment, but we remember that God will see us through.
Gracious God, thank You for not faltering in Your compassion. Thank You for not wavering in Your love. Thank You for offering me a new morning, a new beginning, a new hope. Amen.