This post is Day 13 in a series of studies about “Joy”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Joy – Day 13

At the end of Lamentations, this book of complaints and sadness, Jeremiah lets us know that he still trusts in God, who is the only one who can change things. God is still the same today, and He is turning hearts back to Himself through the turmoil of our world.

Lamentations 5:14-16

The elders are gone from the city gate; the young men have stopped their music. Joy is gone from our hearts; our dancing has turned to mourning. The crown has fallen from our head. Woe to us, for we have sinned!

The Thought

Christmas is rapidly approaching. For many it is a time of joy, but for others it is not a happy season. Remembering loved ones who are no longer there to celebrate with, often through natural causes, by accident or through sin! People can find themselves alone because of dispute, divorce or work activities.

In this short book of Lamentations, which is generally thought to have been written by Jeremiah, we have 5 chapters of complaints and misery! The city of Jerusalem is more or less empty! Everyone has been taken into captivity in Babylon.

But there is a ray of hope in the middle of Jeremiah’s mourning, anger and frustration. He is grateful for life. Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed. His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-24).

At the end of this book of complaints and sadness Jeremiah lets us know that he still trusts in God, who is the only one who can change things. God is still the same today. He is turning hearts back to Himself through the turmoil of our world.

Action

Pray with Jeremiah today Turn our hearts back to You oh Lord, that we may return; renew our days as of old (Lamentations 5:21).

Pray for the lonely today, and if you yourself are alone, praise God that He is your constant companion, and ask Him if there are other lonely ones that He wants you to reach out to. Then pray for the Lord’s peace for each one, and pray for good surprises for them.

Pray for your local stores, and markets, that in all their dealings with Christmas products, they will remember the real origin of the Christian celebration.

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