This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope (Lamentations 3:21).
Sad circumstances forming the “setting” of this book are intricately tied to the history of the “divided kingdom” of Israel. In about 975 B.C., the nation of Israel was divided into two entities: the Northern Kingdom, known as “Israel” and the Southern Kingdom known as “Judah.”
Jeremiah is often referred to as the “weeping prophet” because he preached with such passion in warning the people to “amend your ways and your doings” (Jeremiah 7:3). “But they hearkened not…” (verse 24). Thus calamity came upon them and the King of Babylon destroyed Jerusalem and carried the people into captivity. Jeremiah saw it all and wailed, “Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by?” (Lamentations 1:12).
In chapter 3, expressing how he personally felt in verses 1-19, Jeremiah was humbled, but had hope (verses 20-21). Though in the midst of a wicked world, crumbling about us, yet in Christ we have a “living hope!” (1 Peter 1:3-4).
The book Meditations Of My Heart (from which this daily devotional is taken) is available / can be ordered from Sain Publications (931-363-6905 or email psain@sainpublications.com).