Labor Pains – The Presidential Prayer Team

Out of them shall come songs of thanksgiving, and the voices of those who celebrate. – Jeremiah 30:19

In Jeremiah 30:6, a passage preceding today’s verse, God, through the prophet Jeremiah, asks the Israelites an interesting question: “Can a man bear a child? Why then do I see every man with his hands on his stomach like a woman in labor? Why has every face turned pale?” The prophet goes on to foretell good news for the Israelites. Though they, as a nation, had been under punishment, God declared restoration and prosperity. He prophesied that His people would be singing songs of thanksgiving and shouting in celebration.

In the United States, there are many temptations to be fearful and tremble when you consider serious issues such as COVID, threats against freedom of religion and speech, and the ensuing problems that come with the border crisis. However, God has not only promised to take care of His children during good times but when times are difficult as well.

Jesus told the people of His day not to worry about food or clothing; the Lord would provide. He showed this in a great practical example by feeding crowds of thousands with a few loaves of bread and fish. While circumstances may cause groaning as you experience the “labor pains” of difficulty, continue to rejoice in the promises that God has given His people in Christ. And be thankful! Pray that the leaders and citizens of the United States will learn to trust Jehovah Jireh as Provider.

Today’s Verse: Jeremiah 30:19

Out of them shall come songs of thanksgiving,
    and the voices of those who celebrate.
I will multiply them, and they shall not be few;
    I will make them honored, and they shall not be small.

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Recommended for further reading: John 16:16-24

¹⁶“A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me.” ¹⁷So some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, ‘A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and, ‘because I am going to the Father’?” ¹⁸So they were saying, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We do not know what he is talking about.” ¹⁹Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, “Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I meant by saying, ‘A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me’? ²⁰Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. ²¹When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. ²²So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. ²³In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. ²⁴Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.