When reading the bible, the book of Lamentations is probably not a book that you have a genuine desire to read. In fact, you might be tempted to skip over it all together and read about the remarkable life of Jesus or the incredible transformation story of Saul turning to Paul and becoming one of the most influential men of all time. As great and life changing as those stories are, there are many truths in the book of Lamentations that must be shared.
The book of Lamentations was written by an anonymous author and was made up of five poems that served as a memorial of the Israelites after the fall of Jerusalem. Just like the poems in Lamentations, there are several poems in the book of Psalms that are also considered lament poems. Lament poems can be described as a passionate declaration of pain and sorrow. The book of Lamentations was written as a way in which individuals could voice their pain, anger, sorrow, or any other emotion. Friend, I want you to know that it is okay for you display a passionate declaration of pain and sorrow to God when you are going through a challenging time. In fact, God welcomes it. How do I know that? Because the human pain and sorrow addressed in the lament poems became part of God’s inerrant word to reach people like you and me.
Regardless of what emotions you are experiencing, God welcomes you just the way you are. What really changed my life was understanding that it is okay to have questions towards God. It is okay to be upset with God. But regardless of how you feel, take it to God. Spend time in prayer and devotion and experience a love and comfort you have never experienced before. It is in times like this that you will experience growth in your faith like never before. Communication with God is key to spiritual growth.
In Lamentations, the author says, “my soul is bereft of peace; I have forgotten what happiness is; so, I say, “My endurance has perished; so, has my hope from the Lord” (ESV, 2023, Lamentations 3:17-18).
The author argues that they have no peace, they are not happy, and they no longer have hope in the lord. What amazes me is that there is an astonishing transformation just four verses later.
The author says, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (ESV, 2023, Lamentations 3:22-23).
What changed? How can the author go from being without peace, unhappy, and no hope in the lord to singing “Great is thy faithfulness?” It is quite simple, but so life changing. It is the unchanging and unbreakable love of God. The truth is that God’s love is so powerful and so superior to any type of love on this earth that it will change your life. God’s love for humanity is evident every day. Friend, when you feel like your unloved and without peace, run to God. Experiences his love and mercy. You will not regret it. You will be changed. It is that powerful.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for showing me love when we show you anger. Thank you for showing forgiveness when we show you how undeserving we are of you. Lord, amid the trials and tribulations of life, give us the strength to sing “Great is Thy Faithfulness.” God help us to turn to you in times of need. Help us to understand it is okay to have questions. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.