For Reflection/Discussion: What are some of the problems and challenges you've faced that could have been avoided had you made different choices? What choices did the leaders and people of Judah make that contributed to the siege and ultimate destruction of Jerusalem, and the Babylonian captivity?

For Reflection/Discussion: What was the basis of Jeremiah's hope in the midst of the horrific tragedy he had witnessed? What is your understanding of the words love, compassions, and faithfulness in this passage? As you think about God and about your faith, are you supply-focused or demand-focused? In what ways are God's compassions (or mercies) new every morning? How have you experienced God's mercies today? The hymn Great Is Thy Faithfulness was inspired by Lamentations 3.21-23. What are some of God's mercies identified by its author? Why is it important to identify and thank God for His mercies?

For Reflection/Discussion: Why is it important to understand and focus on the character of God when we find ourselves in the midst of suffering? Why is it essential that we realize that suffering— even the suffering that we have caused ourselves— isn't forever?