He has made my teeth grind on gravel, and made me cower in ashes. (Lamentations 3:16 ESV)
Deep Needs
I had a panic moment recently. My awaited tax return was five days late. My bank seemed unwilling to help, my tax program did not have the information. And the IRS said, “we sent it, ask your bank.”
At the same time, some tough counseling situations were drowning my peace, car trouble was looming its head over my daily plans, and the airline flights for a summer wedding trip were suddenly canceled.
I stared at my computer screen… and found peace in these words of Jeremiah. Jeremiah was hurting. Jeremiah was afraid. Jeremiah had complex and apparently unsolvable problems that were tearing him apart physically, intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.
My problems were miniscule compared to his.
Many in the world have problems that make mine seem like mosquito bites. Many of God’s people have problems that make mine seem like mere cold French fries. Many of you have problems that make mine seem like a forgotten bad daydream.
But the answer to ALL of those problems, no matter how overwhelming or underwhelming is the same thing.
Oh, how we need Jesus.
The peace I found from Jeremiah’s words is that Jesus knows my needs. The Holy Spirit knows my needs. The Father knows my needs.
And His saving Grace, and continued mercy are enough.
More than enough.
More than I can imagine.
He is that great.