Lamentations 3:19-30 – WHEN OVERWHELMED
• What are some possible reactions when we feel overwhelmed with grief?
• What advice would you give to a person who is overwhelmed (after you let him or her vent)?
Jeremiah was overwhelmed with grief after the fall of Jerusalem. Conditions were terrible. However, with God’s enabling, he was able to put things in perspective.
REMORSE – Vss. 19-20
• Vs. 19 – Jeremiah is reflecting on all the affliction and “wanderings” or “homelessness”.
• “WORMWOOD Nonpoisonous but bitter plant common to the Middle East. Wormwood often is used in analogy to speak of bitterness and sorrow.” Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
• Gall would be poison. He was thinking of all the bad things that had afflicted him and Israel.
• Vs. 20 – All these hurts led Jeremiah to be feeling depressed.
RECALL – Vss. 21-23
• Vs. 21 – In spite of the depression, Jeremiah recalls some facts that bring him hope.
• Vs. 22 – God’s lovingkindness or mercies never allow us to be consumed! Hebrews 13:5, Matthew 28:20
• His compassions never fail, no matter what is happening in our lives.
• Vs. 23 – God renews his compassions every morning. How is that true?
• How does the faithfulness of God encourage you?
RESPOND – Vss. 24-27
1. It is good to choose. Vs. 24, Psalm 16:5, Joshua 24:15
2. It is good to hope. Vss. 24, 26, Titus 2:13-14
3. It is good to wait. Vss. 25, 26, Psalm 62:5, Psalm 130:5-6
4. It is good to seek Him. Vs. 25, Psalm 27:8, Matthew 6:33
5. It is good to submit. Vss. 27-32, Romans 12:1, 1 Peter 3:8-15