“I am the man who has seen affliction under the rod of his wrath; he has driven and brought me into darkness without any light; surely against me he turns his hand again and again the whole day long.” (Lamentations 3:1–3, ESV)

While it is true that in the presence of the LORD there is fullness of joy, there are also times when we experience great sorrow. No one is immune from such trials, and they can leave us feeling confused, abandoned and discouraged. Like Job in days of old, Jeremiah suffered great affliction when he was seeking to be loyal to God. From Jeremiah’s perspective, it seemed like God had become his enemy. He was driven from his home, from his family, and from his fellow priests and prophets. Because he lived during the destruction of the nation, he experienced firsthand the rod of God’s wrath. Though he had cried out for help, he felt that the LORD had shut out his prayer. Even worse, he felt that God had made him a target and was firing arrows at him! His soul was bereft of peace, and he forgot what happiness was (v. 17).

Nevertheless, in this state of extreme despair, Jeremiah remembered one thing:

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22–23, ESV)

It was meditating on these truths that got Jeremiah through the fiery trials. It’s been said that if we meditate on our feelings, it will never change the truth. But if we meditate on the truth, then it will change how we feel. By dwelling on the steadfast love of the LORD, His continuous mercies and great faithfulness, Jeremiah was able to climb out of the dark pit of despair into the sunlight of hope. He was able to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD and discover that He makes all things beautiful in His time.

“‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’” (Lamentations 3:24, ESV)

Dear friend, is it true with you?