Feeling down? You are not alone.

When the Old Testament prophet, Jeremiah, was given the task of proclaiming doom on the nation of Judah because of their rebellious lifestyle, he had few friends, was received with hostility, persecuted, and even imprisoned.

Let’s face it. Sometimes, people are just not nice. Their rudeness, self-centeredness, and harsh words hurt our heart and crush our spirit.

How did Jeremiah respond? The book of Lamentations, most likely written or dictated by Jeremiah is a collection of five laments. In it, this “weeping prophet” grieves over the destruction of Jerusalem, its temple, the loss and exile of its residents, and the manner in which he has been treated.

But in the middle of the book, while Jeremiah is recounting bitterness and hardship, his thoughts change. “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:21-23).

The chapter continues with encouraging words to cling to:

“The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him” (3:25).

“Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love” (3:32).

“You came near when I called you, and you said, ‘Do not fear.’ O Lord, you took up my case; you redeemed my life. You have seen, O LORD, the wrong done to me. Uphold my cause!” (3:57-59).

Our remedy is to call on the Lord in our despair and know that He hears our plea (3:55-56). May we turn to Him, lifting up our hearts and hands (3:40-41).

When feeling down, look up and be blessed.