I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope (La 3:19-21)
Jeremiah saw one ray of hope in all the sin and sorrow surrounding him: God's compassions never fail. Too often we feel left out, left behind and forgotten when we are in pain (be it physical or emotional). We call out to God and it seems like He either doesn't hear or refuses to answer. Not so. He hears. He never fails.
When we wander around in our own desert like the Israelites or enter into the place where we are to do His work and are received like Nehemiah in Jerusalem, our human nature causes us to question what it is we are doing and why we are doing it. Sometime those around you will tell you that you aren't who you are supposed to be and maybe it's time to make a change. Change is good, it is also scary. When you've done something for any amount of time, it becomes routine, habit, comfortable. When that act is removed, you are left with an empty place. Sometimes we become overwhelmed. Sometimes we just need our battery recharged.
There are things that the Lord will "release" you from, in His time. There are others that He will insist you continue to wait for, to have faith in, even when everyone around you says "it's hopeless". God's plan is not always understood by those who are not "privy" to it. Only you know what He has told you. Only you can make a decision to walk away or continue on. It just may be your test of faith!
Don't walk away from anything that glorifies God, even if you don't feel particularly led sometimes. Don't let the enemy convince you that you are unworthy, undeserving and wasting your time. Let that spark within you light your way - which is sometimes darker than you'd like. Let the light of the world shine on each and every step you take. Trust that He will illuminate the next one without projecting fear that He won't. He has His hand on your shoulder the whole time...He won't abandon you or let you fall. He'll continue to lead as long as you follow.
Compassion is love in action. God willingly responds with help when we ask. His compassion is greater than any sin we commit (and there is no sin in your life that is too great). He promises forgiveness. Dive into His word, reaffirm your faith in Him. Fill your soul with all the love it will hold - He holds you!
