May 31 - Recalled.

Lamentations 3:21
“This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.”
 
What do you make a habit of recalling to your mind? Memories, mistakes, misfortunes… or provision, protection, and peace?
 
Jeremiah purposefully dwelt on what God had done…and in the context of this chapter within the Book of Lamentations, he spent the previous 20 verses remembering his affliction and the wrath of God upon his life. 
 
Lamentations 3:19-20
“Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall. My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me.”
 
His life was not a bed of roses, but Jeremiah realized that his weakness only allowed the Lord’s strength to shine through the darkness. 
 
That was reason enough for him to have hope.
Despite his circumstances, some of which he brought upon himself, he understood that God had a purpose. He knew that God could use what he endured for His glory.
 
This is similar to Paul’s perspective of his thorn in the flesh.
 
2 Corinthians 12:8-10
“For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.”
 
Recall to your mind today what the Lord has done in your life in the past that can give you hope today.
 
Psalm 119:81
“My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word.”
 
Remind yourself through the Scriptures, for in Them we can find hope.
 
 
Bible Reading:
1 Kings 1-2   |    2 Corinthians 3