Difficult

Paul conceded that a “thorn was given [him] in the flesh.” We don’t know what it was, but he described it as “a messenger of Satan” sent to afflict him. Paul had been given a vision of heaven. He didn’t write a book about it or go on the talk show circuit.

Some of you are reading this at a difficult economic time. Your business has shrunk. Your sales are down. Your customers are cutting back. Your salary has been reduced. Your job has gone away.

Real strength can only be found in the Lord of hosts, our God.

David’s confidence was grounded in the fact that God answered his calls for help.

Talk to him about the deep longing of your heart.

Ask God to give you the humility to seek help. Don’t let your pride get in the way.

The fact of the resurrection finally drives out all pain, sorrow, loss, and tears. The resurrection replaces our present anguish with great joy.

Real strength comes from only one place. We can be strong only because the LORD Almighty is our God. His strong arm is never too short to help us.

The author, probably Jeremiah, understands that Babylon was used merely as a human instrument of God’s judgment. Yet through his laments, he wrestles with the ways of God.