32…but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; 33for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men. Lamentations 3:32-33
Lamentation by definition means: “The passionate expression of grief or sorrow; weeping.” The writer of Lamentations is arguably unknown by scholars though some attribute the book to Jeremiah, the prophet, who warned King Josiah of the impending doom.
The known world was in turmoil with the Assyrians destroying the northern kingdom (701BC) and the Babylonians, under King Nebuchadnezzar (604 BC), destroying Judea, looting the temple and carrying off the best and brightest young men to Babylon. Simply put, the God of the Israelite’s had been “defeated” by the god of the Babylonians in the eyes of the known world. Judean kings had abandoned God, so God allowed these evil empires to conquer his people. God does not inflict harm!
At times, we can turn away from God. However, God never abandons us. When I was a young child, I believed God watched me like a hawk waiting for me to mess up so that he could punish me. Early on in my life I lived in darkness until I learned of the saving grace of Jesus, God’s Son. He loves me so much he bore God’s wrath on the cross. I confess I sin, but God loves me so much he let his Son be brutally murdered for my sake.
In today’s world believers can walk in the light with the assurance of eternal life and full confidence that the Father is in control. No one has to live in fear!
Prayer: Father, continue to keep us strong in our faith, especially when the world seems dark. Reassure us of your unfailing love now and forever. Amen.
Contributed by Conrad Griggs