Jeremiah gives us another upbeat message in this reading. What poignant and memorable words of hope in Israel’s darkest hour! Even though we’re not the original hearers of these words from God, we can still glean joy in the promised restoration. What were some of your favorite images of the restoration? I liked “With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself,” and “I will comfort them and exchange their sorrow for rejoicing.”
This same God of hope loves us and looks out for us, too. We have been included into his family by the blood of Jesus. With that truth in mind, reread this passage and find the hope God intends for you to cling to today. We are all walking through some challenge that is zapping our energy, and likely our joy. I don’t know what your struggle is, nor you mine, but that’s okay. We serve the same loving God that is walking right beside each of us.
In God’s vision of what is to come, there is a lot of rejoicing going on. The people are finally giving God praise and thanks again for all he has done for them. It’s hard to be caught in the trap of frustration or dread when you’re celebrating the love of God.
As followers of Christ, we also have access to the Holy Spirit. When we spend time with the Holy Spirit, joy results. That’s another promise we have. When we’re in the season of our own restoration, we’ll probably notice the other “fruits of the Spirit” as well. A quick review of those: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)
What are you looking to restore in your own life? Is it a relationship, a bank account, a business challenge, or your health? Can God help you with this? Philippians 4:6-7 speaks wisdom to this. “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Take some time to talk to God today about your own restoration.
Let’s pray … God you are so good to me. I am so grateful for how your joy infiltrates the concerns in my life. I know without a doubt that you are beside me in every storm and struggle. Continue to grow my faith as I grow closer to you each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
