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THE CRY FROM THE DUNGEON

    Jeremiah was one of many afflicted and tormented, but faithful, servants of the Almighty "of whom the world was not worthy." (See Heb. 11: 37-38.)  His prophetical work began in the thirteenth year of Josiah's reign and continued through the "carrying away of Jerusalem" into Babylonian captivity. (Jer. 1: 1-2.)

    Jeremiah's label as "the weeping prophet" is fitting.  His lament over the fall of his homeland is a literary classic.  All his pleadings and warnings were in vain.  his preaching met with stiff opposition as he sought to awaken an indifferent populace.  He eventually was cast into a dungeon or pit.

    Jeremiah was not alone in such treatment.  Joseph was cast into a pit by jealous and angry brothers.  (Genesis 37:24.)  Daniels lot was a den of lions, which was probably a pit of sorts.  (Daniel 6.)  His friends, Shadrach, Meshack, and Abednego, were thrown into a fiery furnace. (Daniel 3.)  Paul and Silas occupied an "inner prison" with their feet held in stocks. (Acts 16:24.)

    How did Jeremiah cope with such treatment?  Lamentation 3:55 reveals the answer:  "I called upon thy name, O Lord, out of the low dungeon."

    Christians often find themselves in "dungeons".  It may be a "dungeon" of their own making.  Many times, however, it is due to the uncontrollable circumstances of life or, as in Jeremiah's case, because of the actions of others.

    We sometimes find ourselves in the "dungeon" of discouragement, which may lead us into "dungeons" of depression and despair.  When loved ones become ill and die we may find ourselves in what could be called the "dungeon" of death.  Our grief is great. but not hopeless.  (1 Thess. 4:13.)

    When we are in our "dungeons", let us do what Jeremiah did.  His God heard his voice, drew near, pleaded his cause, and redeemed his soul. (Lam. 3:56-57.)  As God's children we, too, have the blessed assurance that He will hear our cry from the dungeon. (1 Peter 3:12.)

                                                                   Edward L Anderson

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