1. I am one who has seen affliction (1-18)

Jeremiah saw the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem as the rod of God's anger. He suffered with his people. He describes his utterly hopeless feelings in graphic terms. He is like a man mangled by a lion and left without help. He had no peace and no hope.

2. I remember (19-21)

When he began to remember his affliction and wandering, his soul was downcast. But as he continued to remember, new hope was born in his heart, for he remembered the love of God.

3. The Lord is my portion (22-24)

He was still alive. The people were in exile, but they were not dead. There is hope because of God's great love; God's great faithfulness and compassion never fail. Every morning is a new day. Let us say with Jeremiah, 'The Lord is my portion; I will wait for him.'

Application: Lord, help me not to despair when I suffer because of my sins or those of my people. You are my portion; I will wait on you.
One Word: The Lord is my portion