David McQueen focuses on Lamentations 3:22–23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” for week three of the Coffee Cup Christianity series.

This common verse will find most followers of Christ acknowledging God's faithfulness during favorable times but struggling to do so during times of sorrow and hardship. To best understand this verse, we must understand the context in which the Book of Lamentations was written – a period of immense suffering, destruction, and darkness following the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians. The author, Jeremiah the prophet, has seen affliction and felt abandoned by God. The verses of Lamentations express his anguish, but they also serve as a reminder of God's patience, steadfast love, and promises throughout Israel's history. Pastor McQueen encourages honesty in facing difficult emotions and wrestling with God, using Jeremiah's example. Faith begins with acknowledging feelings but doesn't end there. Faith calls one to remember God's goodness and promises, as exemplified by Jeremiah.

In looking in the New Testament and the significance of Jesus' sacrifice, Jesus experienced darkness to bring light and hope. How you speak to yourself is important, we must recall God's goodness, and choose to focus on the cross, as it is a reminder of God's ultimate act of love and hope. Be encouraged to declare God's goodness, especially in difficult circumstances!