Today’s Tasting: Lamentations 3-5
We continue with Jeremiah’s sadness over what has happened to him and to Judah. At the beginning of chapter 3, Jeremiah is still distraught over all that has happened to him and to Judah. Then he shifts into prayer, remembering God’s mercy and he shifts his focus from himself, to God….then back to all that has happened to his people and acknowledgement that repentance is needed if they ever expect God to forgive them.
Chapter 4 is about Judah and compares the previous glory of Jerusalem to the horrible conditions in which they are currently living under. It ends with hope as Jeremiah warns Edom to enjoy their victory now because it will not last as God will restore Judah.
Finally, chapter 5 brings closure as the people of Judah finally repent and ask God to bring them back to Him.
Today’s Nourishment: Have you ever found yourself irritated and impatient while waiting on things you want…a promotion at work…a long term relationship…financial security??
Perhaps you see a future of doom and gloom because things are changing fast enough…or changing in the direction you want???
Today’s tasting reminded me that regardless of what is transpiring in our current circumstances, we can’t lose sight of God. Jeremiah and the people of Judah had it pretty rough. They went from lives of luxury to being homeless, and if they were lucky, laborers. While they did complain – who wouldn’t in their shoes – they also remembered the past and the blessings and grace God had brought upon them until they eventually confessed their sins…and as we now know, God forgave them.
I do not believe that God necessarily ‘punishes’ us; however I do believe that he allows things to transpire as a result of the choices we make. He gave us free will in the hopes that we would choose to honor and worship Him, fully realizing that at times we might not make that choice. So, rather than forcing us to choose Him, he allows us to learn by having to live with the consequences of the choices we make. To put it in context with our reading, the Israelites chose not to worship God and the consequences of that choice was the very thing they are wailing about in Lamentations.
The next time you find yourself irritated, impatient, or frustrated because things aren’t the way you think they should be…follow the example of Jeremiah and the Israelites and shift your focus to the glory and grace of God. It may not change things overnight–after all it took a while for the Israelites to find their way back to their former way of life–but it will bring you peace during the trials of life.
In what areas of your life do you need to find your way back? Shift your focus and share your nourishment from today’s devotional below.
Tomorrow’s Delight: Ezekiel 1-4
Hugs & Blessings,
Monica
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© 2015
This is a good word Monica. I’ve always believed too that it’s not punishment but He does allow the consequences to cause us to turn back to Him. For me I know I need the Word to guide me every single day. It truly helps me keep my focus. God in His grace is such a good and loving Father that just wants His children’s trust and love. What a blessed life if we would just be obedient!