Call It To Mind!

Some people have a real sour outlook on life. Perhaps, being made aware of some of the calamities and challenges certain individuals have faced, we would not blame them. Reading through Lamentations I came across what could possibly be considered the “best” statement for one who is truly soured on life. It was spoken by one of God’s prophets. Fortunately, however, that is not where his focus remained.

We read…
“(16) He has made my teeth grind on gravel, and made me cower in ashes; (17) my soul is bereft of peace; I HAVE FORGOTTEN WHAT HAPPINESS IS; (18) so I say, “MY ENDURANCE HAS PERISHED; SO HAS MY HOPE FROM THE LORD.” ( Lamentations 3:16-18 ESV)

Imagine one being so miserable they could not even remember what happiness (alternate translations are “good” or “prosperity”) was! The days of Jeremiah were sad times. He persistently proclaimed the message and warnings of God for twenty-three years, all the while the people continued refusing to listen. ( Jeremiah 25:3) Most preachers would have quit long before that! Is it any wonder Jeremiah has been called the “weeping prophet”? As Jeremiah faithfully proclaimed the message of God, he was mistreated, threatened, called a liar, imprisoned, and thrown into a cistern. If that wouldn’t sour someone on life, I don’t know what could?

As always, when one is in the depths of despair, the thing to do is to LOOK UP to God and call to mind His reliability! LIFTING OUR GAZE from where we are is not always easy. Sometimes we need the help of others to be reminded of what can still be counted on. Calling to mind the assurances God has given in His Word for those who seek Him also helps renew the spirit to press on. Remember that even above the dark clouds the sun is still shining. Even in the darkest of life’s misfortunes God is aware and His love for those who continue to seek Him endures. As I said above, Jeremiah’s focus was fortunately not left on this sour note.

Jeremiah went on to state…
“(21) But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: (22) The STEADFAST LOVE OF THE LORD NEVER CEASES; HIS MERCIES NEVER COME TO AN END; (23) they are NEW EVERY MORNING; GREAT IS YOUR FAITHFULNESS. (24) ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘THEREFORE I WILL HOPE IN HIM.’” ( Lamentations 3:21-24 ESV)

Hope is renewed when we remember what God’s ultimate desire is; the restoration and salvation of lost souls. He admonishes and warns with an eagerness for mankind to turn back toward Him and His Will. With each new day dawns the mercies of God. His faithfulness is great! His love is enduring! Therefore let us keep LOOKING UP as we place our abiding hope in Him.

Have a great day SAVORING THE SWEET LOVING FAITHFULNESS OF GOD!
Carl

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