Gentle & Lowly- His ‘Natural’ Work and His ‘Strange’ Work
In the latest sermon of our Gentle & Lowly series, John spoke of how God’s heart is for us not against us despite our difficult times and suffering. Lamentations is a book written at the time of the destruction of Jerusalem, and the author (some say Jeremiah) expresses his grief at what God is allowing to happen to him, his people and his city. It is a description of suffering. Lamentations is a very carefully crafted book with everything hanging on what is literally the central verse, Lamentations 3:33. This alerts us to its significance.
John encouraged reflection on where God is in the midst of difficult times and asked, does God stand back and think “You got what you deserved” or does it hurt him to see our pain and does he draw alongside us in that pain?
Looking at Jesus, John reminded us that he lived in the most palatial place there is: heaven. But Jesus chose to come to earth, was rejected and killed in what appeared to be a failed mess, but was in fact the very way in which we were swept into his heart and to never be let go.
Five-day Devotional Material to accompany this sermon
Day 1: God’s Reluctance in Judgment
Scripture: Isaiah 28:21
Reflection: This verse is key in reminding us that God does not willingly bring affliction or grief to anyone. Isaiah describes God’s judgment as his "strange work," indicating that it is not his desire to bring suffering, with his heart inclined towards mercy and compassion. God’s ultimate desire is to bring us closer to him, even if this is sometimes for discipline or correction.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your mercy and compassion. Help me to understand your heart and to trust in your goodness, even when I face challenges. May I always seek your presence and guidance. Amen.
Day 2: God’s Presence in Suffering
Scripture: Lamentations 3:31-33
Reflection: The author of Lamentations reminds us that God does not cast off his people forever. Even in suffering, his compassion is great. Consider how God is present with you in your trials, offering comfort and hope. He walks with us through our darkest times, never leaving us alone.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for being with me in my suffering. Help me to feel your presence and to trust in your unfailing love. May I find peace in knowing that you are always near. Amen.
Day 3: The Example of Job
Scripture: Job 19:25-27
Reflection: Job’s story is a powerful testament to faith in the midst of suffering. Despite his trials, Job declared his hope in God, saying, "I know that my redeemer lives." Reflect on how you can hold onto hope and faith, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.
Prayer: Father, like Job, I want to trust in you, even when life is difficult. Strengthen my faith and help me to see your hand at work in my life. May I always declare that my Redeemer lives. Amen.
Day 4: God’s Power in Our Weakness
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Reflection: Paul’s experience of God’s grace in his weakness teaches us that God’s power is made perfect in our frailty. Reflect on how God has and can use your weaknesses to demonstrate his strength and bring glory to his name.
Prayer: Lord, I acknowledge my weaknesses and ask for your strength. Let your power be evident in my life, and use me for your purposes. Thank you for your grace that sustains me. Amen.
Day 5: Trusting God’s Heart
Scripture: Romans 8:31-32
Reflection: God is for us, not against us. This is evidenced in that he did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. Take time to reflect on the depth of God’s love and his commitment to our well-being. Trust that he is working all things for our good.
Prayer: Gracious God, thank you for your incredible love and for giving your Son for me. Help me to trust in your heart and to live with confidence that you are for me. May I rest in your promises and as I do, may I share your love with others. Amen.
