Thanksgiving in Hard Times

 "The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. . ."  (Lamentations 3:22)

This verse comes in the midst of a book literally named after the idea of crying out to God.  Jeremiah the prophet had a lot to lament - the people God had called him to proclaim the Word of God to were not listening.  They were moving faster and faster toward judgment.  There was not a lot to give thanks for.  He had been imprisoned.  He had been left up to his armpits in mud to die.  And he did not have a lot to show for a lifetime of faithful service to God.  All he had was people who did not like him very much. A lot of complaints and not a few death threats.  

But there is always one thing that we have.  It is something that we can count on no matter what.  No matter how many things happen or what we are going through, this is a truth that we can not only rely on - but give thanks for because it is true.  I want us to think about it.

God's covenant faithfulness does not cease.  And His love toward us does not fail.  Which means that even the painful things we go through are an expression of God's love to us that He will use for our good and His glory.  What a reminder - I can give thanks!