Finding Hope in Sadness

When was the last time you were at a funeral? I know—it’s not necessarily a cheery topic to bring up. Even when a loved one is enduring such tremendous pain, it is difficult to let them go. Funerals are sad because we’re saying goodbye to someone we deeply love.

An Old Testament prophet named Jeremiah knew all about sadness. He has been nicknamed the “weeping prophet” because He watched as Jerusalem, the city he loved, was brought to ruins by invaders. He wrote a book of poetry—funeral dirges, really—in which he expressed his grief and sorrow.

But in the midst of sadness, some of the most encouraging words come that help bring relief. Listen to His words;

“The Lord’s loving-kindnesses indeed never cease. For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is your faithfulness. The Lord is my portion,” says my soul. “Therefore I have hope in Him.”

They are found in the book called Lamentations. Who would have thought that out of such sadness, sustaining encouragement could be found?