Jeremiah now begins to feel sorry for himself and for all that he has been through. He feels that the Lord is against him. God had used him for target practice. He had been like a bear or a lion lying in wait for Jeremiah, and Jeremiah was discouraged. He felt as though he was in a tomb and could not get out. It was a living death. But, then he remembered that all this affliction is what made him humble and he began to thank the Lord for his mercies and for not consuming him. It seems that he begins to realize that God does want the best for us and our afflictions are helps from God to keep us humble and on the right path. We need to patiently bear whatever trials come our way. God does not afflict us without cause. He also has compassion on us. Then it seems that Jeremiah again remembers all that his enemies have done against him. He asks the Lord to avenge them for what they have done.
Do you feel discouraged? Does it feel like God is using you for target practice? Does it seem that God doesn't hear your prayers? If so, remember all the things that God has done for you. Think of how God might be using these difficult times to build your character. He always has a reason for what he does even if we cannot understand it. Sometimes we bring difficulties on ourselves when we refuse to obey Him. Other times, God wants to strengthen our faith or cause us to depend on Him. So, whatever you are facing right now, thank God for the fact that we are not consumed because of His great mercy.
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