After the New Year’s parties end, a subtle sadness can seep in. Wintry disappointments chill, and dark skies dim outlooks. Old Testament prophet Jeremiah knew all about heartache. He warned of Jerusalem’s fall and witnessed the devastation of 586 B.C. when the Babylonians took over. The favored city of God, the magnificent temple of Solomon, and the nation of God were damaged and destitute.
You might feel the same way. Aspirations for family and the future sag. Where there used to be abundance, now lie ruins. Take heart, beloved. God has not forgotten nor abandoned you.
Let Jeremiah’s words encourage you. “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord,” Lamentations 3:25-26 NIV.
He offered this promise amid the ashes of every important building in Jerusalem burned to the ground (Jeremiah 52:13). The holy temple had been looted (Jeremiah 52:17-23). Jewish leaders, priests, and royal advisors had been executed or exiled (Jeremiah 52:4, 9-11). During the next few years, the conquerors deported 4,600 Jews to Babylon, leaving behind the poorest to fend for themselves.
How the Jews survived this dark time can be a light for us during difficulty. Hold fast to Jeremiah’s words and wait expectantly for deliverance.
In the wake of devastation, quiet your heart to listen. Despite loss, there will be restoration. God will redeem grief and salvage the future.
Dear Lord, for the wounded places in our heart, please rebuild hope. Empower us to wait patiently with quiet expectation for how You will bring good despite loss. We trust You. Amen.
*** If you like short music videos with a devotion, check out Tracy's YouTube playlists.
Arranged with Love https://youtu.be/ZDnygZmVF6s
Living Water to Refresh Your Soul https://youtu.be/hPoy6pduyIw
Here is the direct link to Bible Gateway if you’d like to read more about why Jerusalem fell:
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+52&version=NIV.
