Bible Chapter: Lamentations 3 & 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The nation was suffering through God’s punishment, while at the same time they had hope of being restored to a right relationship with God. This hope grasps the truth that God’s love and help will come to those who repent and wait for God.  Those who serve God can expect Him to hear their prayers. Those who reject God and live in sin can’t live with that expectation.  Those who follow God do have hope, even when everything seems horrible.  God’s love never ceases.  God is gracious and merciful.
The expression “Bear the yoke” is used by the author. This agricultural illustration symbolizes difficult or oppressive situations. God sometimes uses problems or pain to come to those who have sinned to humble them, to get their attention.  God’s ultimate goal is to bring them to repentance.  God forgives the repentant heart.  God never takes pleasure in the “yoke”, but the goal is restoration of our personal relationship with Him.
When people sin, they can sometimes look back at their former glory, their former position with God.  But, as it says, their gold became dull. Disobedience always brings problems.  There was corruption in the spiritual leaders and the people trusted more in human effort than God for their strength and success.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Your punishment, your trials will end. This was a hopeful prophecy from Jeremiah.  Judah’s captivity would come to an end in God’s timing when His purpose for the suffering and discipline reached its goal.  This is encouraging.  The spiritual battles we face are not eternal. Get close to God and watch Him do His perfect work.

3.  How can I help someone?
Learn through the lessons you have experienced.  Learn so you don’t have to take the same “class” again.  Learn from God.