We’ve got your daily encouragement, written by Rick Crabtree.
Bible Reading:
Lamentations 3:21 & 24
“21 But this I call to mind,
and therefore I have hope:”“24 ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul,
‘therefore I will hope in him.’”
Word:
Lamentations was written by the Prophet Jeremiah in a time of great grief and mourning. The book describes suffering and anguish as God imposes judgement for the sins of the people. Yet in the midst of God’s judgment and wrath, Jeremiah describes the great hope that he has as God demonstrates compassion, love, faithfulness and mercy for His people.
Today’s scripture says: “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope… The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end.” So, in the midst of all that is going on around Jeremiah- all the grief, suffering and anguish- he makes it a point to call to mind the promises of God. In doing so, he establishes his hope in things that are of the Lord, and not of this world.
The scripture continues: “they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I will hope in Him.” Jeremiah acknowledges the faithfulness of God and knows that the Lord will never leave us or forsake us in any circumstance. God’s mercies are new every morning and are never ceasing.
With everything that the Prophet Jeremiah endures, and all that happens around him, he finds the unwavering comfort in the Lord. Jeremiah’s soul cries out that the Lord is his portion, and that is where he finds endless hope for any situation. In tough and uncertain times, it can be difficult to look beyond what’s currently happening in your life.
Whether there is suffering, anguish or grief in the world around you, or in circumstances in your own life, it’s important to remember how Jeremiah responded. He sought the Lord. He called to mind God’s faithfulness, mercies and steadfast love, which gave him hope in the midst of turmoil. So, whatever you may be going through in your life; whether it is a life-changing event, hard times for your family, personal health problems, or many other circumstances, focusing on the Lord and His promises will see you through the difficulties and challenges. Seek God in the hard times, allow Him to establish your hope, and watch Him put his power on display.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I pray that we are constantly reminded of your power and presence. Help us all to remember that you are the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, and that no matter what we face in our lives, you have the power to guide us through. You are bigger than any circumstance and you are faithful to never leave us or forsake us. Let us be reminded that our hope is in you, and you alone. Your steadfast love never ceases, your mercies never end and they are new and abundant every morning. Lord, we are grateful. You are our portion, and we hope in you!
Skillwork:
Let’s make it a point to start every day with God as our priority. Starting tomorrow, before facing our circumstances… before all of the worries, concerns and frustrations flood into our lives… let’s take time to turn to God before anything else. Even if it’s only for 5 to 10 minutes, seek God first. Allow Him to work in your heart and mind, guide you, and fill you with hope right from the start.
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