Waiting On God's Goodness Lamentations 3:25 Series

Transformed by Truth: Waiting on God's Goodness Lamentations 3:25

Introduction

Today, we will delve into Lamentations 3:25 and explore how this profound verse calls us to understand and experience God's goodness. Our passage today is filled with hope and assurance amidst trials and tribulations.

Lamentations 3:25 (NLT): "The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him."

Point 1: The Goodness of God

Lamentations 3:25 (NLT): "The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him."

Lamentations is a book of sorrow and mourning over Jerusalem's destruction. Yet, within this context, Jeremiah, the prophet, acknowledges God's goodness. Despite the suffering, he sees God's enduring love and faithfulness.

The Hebrew word for "good" here is tov, which encompasses not just moral goodness but also beauty, pleasantness, and welfare. This richness in meaning assures us that God’s goodness is holistic—it permeates every aspect of our lives.

God's goodness is not just a distant theological concept but a tangible reality in our daily lives. When we depend on Him, we experience His goodness in every situation, even in trials.

Think of a parent who comforts a child during a storm, assuring them that they are safe despite the thunder outside. God's goodness is like that parent's comfort—steady and sure, even when circumstances are frightening.

Psalm 34:8 (NLT): "Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!"

This verse invites us to actively experience God’s goodness, encouraging us to seek refuge in Him.

Point 2: Dependence on God

Lamentations 3:25 (NLT) - "The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him."

Dependence on God is a recurring theme in Scripture, highlighting our need to rely not on our own strength but on God's.

The Hebrew word for "depend" here is qavah, which means to wait for, to look eagerly for. It’s a dependence filled with hope and expectation.

In our fast-paced world, waiting and depending on God can be challenging. Yet, it is in this dependence that we find true strength and guidance. We must learn to lean on Him in every circumstance, trusting in His timing and wisdom.

Consider the example of a farmer who plants seeds and waits patiently for the harvest. They depend on the rain and sun provided by God, trusting that in due time, the seeds will grow. Similarly, we must sow our trust in God and wait for His goodness to manifest.

Isaiah 40:31 (NLT): "But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint."

This verse promises renewed strength to those who wait on the Lord, illustrating the power of dependence on Him.

Point 3: Seeking God with All Our Heart

Lamentations 3:25 (NLT) - "The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him."

To "search for Him" implies an active pursuit of God, a deep desire to know Him and His ways. This is more than a casual glance; it is a diligent, heartfelt search.

The Hebrew word for "search" is darash, meaning to seek, inquire, or require. It denotes a passionate pursuit, a longing to be in God's presence.

In our spiritual journey, we must actively seek God, dedicating time to prayer, reading His Word, and worship. This pursuit transforms our lives, aligning our hearts with His purposes.

Imagine a treasure hunt, where the greatest prize is discovering the heart of God. As we diligently seek Him, we find treasures of wisdom, peace, and joy that transform our lives.

Jeremiah 29:13 (NLT) - "If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me."

This promise encourages us to seek God with all our heart, assuring us that He is near to those who earnestly search for Him.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Lamentations 3:25 invites us to be transformed by the truth of God's goodness, to depend on Him, and to seek Him with all our heart. These truths bring us hope and strength, even in the midst of trials.

Application and Call to Action:

This week, let us:

Reflect on God’s goodness in our lives, acknowledging His blessings and faithfulness.

Cultivate a deeper dependence on Him, especially in challenging times.

Commit to seeking Him wholeheartedly through prayer, Scripture, and worship.

Spend time each day in prayer and reflection, asking God to reveal more of His goodness to you. Seek ways to deepen your dependence on Him and pursue His presence with a sincere heart. Let us live out our faith with a renewed commitment to knowing and serving our good and faithful God.

May the Lord bless you as you embrace these truths, finding hope and strength in His unwavering goodness. Amen.