The attack came swiftly as the Babylonians plundered Jerusalem. The Temple, designed by God and built by Solomon, was destroyed and the city was systematically burned while most residents were taken captive as slaves.

This event took place around 587 BCE (Before Christian Era). The people of Israel, whom God had rescued from slavery in Egypt and led through the wilderness to a better land where they would not be slaves, had been unfaithful. Instead of continuing to follow the God who had led them personally for 40 years, they began to worship the false gods of other countries and cultures. Because of this, God brought a warning to the prophet Jeremiah telling him of this coming destruction as is described in Jeremiah 52.

After the destruction took place, Jeremiah wrote the book of Lamentations beginning by expressing his deep sorrow over what had happened. In chapter 3, he wrote that he saw much affliction and that he feels like he is trapped in a very dark place where there is no hope for light or means of escape. He feels God is against him and that his body is wasting away in bitterness and tribulation. He says that he is weighed down by heavy chains yet at the same time feeling ripped apart by his pain. He says that he has forgotten what happiness feels like.

Interestingly, after baring his hurt so completely before God, Jeremiah slips in an unexpected statement. “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope; The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore, I will hope in Him,'” (Lamentations 3:21-24 ESV). Jeremiah’s situation had not changed, yet he chose to rest in what he had learned of God’s unfailing love.

We know that today there are truly many troubles around the world. However, we must not let fear overtake us but remember the faithfulness of God as Jeremiah did. God is still on His throne and He will never be dethroned. He knows everything, everyone and what the future holds. As we rest in the assurance of God’s faithfulness, let’s live in thankfulness and calm as we turn to God and thank him for all He has given us. Then let’s turn to those around us and provide for their practical and spiritual needs as we are able.

One bottle of water is everything to the one who is thirsty. One hug is nurturing to the hearts of those who are broken. One “please” and “thank you” might be all that is needed to lift someone’s spirit. A kind smile and a pleasant word might be the only bright spot in someone’s day. Helping others is one way to gain perspective on our own challenges and it gives us the opportunity to follow through on the vital task of pointing others toward our faithful God.

Let’s be about living as God would have us live during this Thanksgiving season. As Jeremiah did, let’s begin by calling upon our God for help. “I called on your name, Lord, from the depths of the pit. You heard my plea: ‘Do not close your ears to my cry for relief.’ You came near when I called you and you said, ‘Do not fear,’ (Lamentations 3:55-57 ESV).Only then are we ready to serve with a right heart and motive.

“And, whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him, (Colossians 3:17 NIV). We can love, because He first loved us.