“This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope.”
Lamentations 3:21
As COVID-19 continues to develop, the full extent of its impact remains to be seen. In the face of uncertainty and fear, Jesus offers rest.
What does it mean to trust God?
In Lamentations 3, Jeremiah desperately cries out to God. Overwhelmed, desolate, and filled with bitterness, he questions God’s goodness (Lam. 3:7, 11, 15). He feels forsaken and alone. Surely God has turned against him (Lam. 3:3). It seems like God is deaf to his cries (Lam 3:8). As all these thoughts flood his mind and crush him under their weight, Jeremiah stops and remembers the character of God. He recalls,
“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD” (Lam. 3:22-26).
Even in the middle of his pain, brokenness, and doubt, Jeremiah draws strength from the faithfulness of God. Although he might be cast off for a time, the Lord will not utterly abandon him (Lam. 3:31). Deep in his heart, Jeremiah knows and believes that the Lord is compassionate and abundant in steadfast love (Lam. 3:32). He considers God’s nature and character.
This is trust: to rely on God, to believe that he is good, to let go of worry and anxiety during great difficulty and uncertainty.
The God that Jeremiah worshiped and trusted is the same God that we serve today.
He will not abandon his people and his promises are true.
Instead of fear, live in faith. Remember that we serve a great God and put your trust in Him.
Written by National Bible Bee Alumna: Tabby Boulware
