Look at how certain the prophet is when he speaks! He doesn't say, "I hope, I trust, I sometimes think that God has fought for my soul." No! He states it as an undeniable fact: "You have pleaded the causes of my soul."

Friends, with the help of the Holy Spirit, let's shake off these doubts and fears that rob us of peace. Let this be our prayer: to be done with the harsh, croaking voice of maybe and what-if. Let's speak instead with the clear, melodious voice of full assurance.

And notice how the prophet gives every ounce of glory to God! Do you see it? There's not a single word about himself. Not one mention of his own efforts or prayers. He doesn't credit his deliverance to any human being, and certainly not to his own merit. It's all "You!" "O Lord, YOU have pleaded the causes of my soul. YOU have redeemed my life."

This grateful spirit should mark every Christian. Especially after God delivers us, we should have a song ready for our God. This whole earth should be a temple ringing with the songs of grateful saints. Every single day should rise like incense with the sweet smoke of thanksgiving.

Look at Jeremiah's joy as he records God's mercy! Listen to how triumphantly he sings! This man has been thrown in a dungeon. He is still the weeping prophet. And yet, right here in the book we call "Lamentations," his voice rings out clear as Miriam's song when she struck her tambourine, as piercing as Deborah's shout when she met Barak in victory. We hear Jeremiah's voice ascending to heaven: "You have pleaded the causes of my soul! You have redeemed my life!"

O children of God, seek a living, breathing experience of the Lord's lovingkindness. And when you have it? Speak with certainty. Sing with gratitude. Shout with triumph!