Good morning,
The nation of Israel has been taken captive by the Babylonians. Jerusalem, the Temple, and the homes of all the people have been destroyed. God’s prophet, Jeremiah, laments Israel’s failure to repent for their open rebellion toward their God. Then in chapter 3, verses 20-26, he speaks of hope. Hope is used three times. He uses words of encouragement such as remembrance, humbled, mercies, compassions, faithfulness, good, wait, and salvation.
“20 My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me. 21 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. 22 It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24 The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25 The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. 26 It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.” (Lamentations 3:20-26)
God is not done with Israel. After seventy years in captivity, a remnant returned to Jerusalem, rebuilt the walls of the city, and eventually the Temple. It would be destroyed again in 70 AD, but another Temple will be built during the Tribulation.
When our circumstances seem hopeless, there is hope in the Lord. Remember our Lord Jesus is merciful, compassionate, faithful, good, patient, and will bring salvation to those who seek it.
THERE IS HOPE!
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001
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