4/21/24 YET, STILL, I DARE TO HOPE Love Returned Series Lamentations 3 Joshua Kennedy

Praise Tabernacle Podcast

YET, STILL, I DARE TO HOPE

Love Returned Series

Lamentations 3

As we delve into Lamentations 3 and confront the harsh reality of our existence, we realize that despite being children of God and bearing the kingdom of heaven within us, we remain entrenched in a world marred by sin and suffering.

Our anguish may stem from our transgressions or the wrongdoing of others. Jeremiah, the prophet, bore witness to the suffering of his people, a consequence of their refusal to heed divine warnings. While he could have harbored resentment and turned away, Jeremiah's response mirrored the compassion of the Lord.

The Lord's correction, born out of love, seeks not rejection but restoration. Jeremiah, in solidarity with his people, endured the siege of Jerusalem, grappling with profound despair. He recognized that even amidst this tribulation, the Lord permitted their suffering.

In the depths of his desolation, Jeremiah's proclamation in verses 21-23 resonates: "Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning."

Though despair threatened to consume him, Jeremiah clung to the Lord's covenant promises. Through trials, God's mercy prevailed, transforming adversity into a blessing for those who trust Him. Jeremiah admonishes himself to await salvation patiently, relinquishing complaint and embracing discipline. He urges submission, advocating for endurance in the face of adversity and forgiveness in response to injury.

"For no one is abandoned by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion. Because of the greatness of his unfailing love. For he does not enjoy hurting people or causing them sorrow." (vs. 31-33)

Jeremiah implores us to refrain from bitterness, to accept divine correction with grace, and to become instruments of restoration. Our hearts should ache for those trapped in sin's grip, prompting us to extend mercy and guidance toward their redemption. Rather than harboring resentment, we trust in the Lord's justice, knowing He will repay wrongdoing.

In a world steeped in suffering and sin, may we echo Jeremiah's resolve to endure with hope, extend mercy, and embrace the call to restoration.