When Abandoned, a Reflection on Jeremiah 11:18-20

What is appropriate for polite conversation? What topics shouldn't be mentioned openly? What is all right to say in public worship and what is better kept to outside the sanctuary? Are there any thoughts or emotions that we should try to hide even from God? or, especially from God?

The Bible gives us permission to complain--moreover, to complain to God. After all, 1/3 of the psalms can be classified as laments (a politer word than complaints).

This lament from Jeremiah is an example. Jeremiah expresses his realization that he is under threat, that he is like a lamb being led to slaughter, that he has been plotted againt.

He is complaining to God, and he is asking God to make things right.

Jeremiah felt abandoned. Jeremiah turned to God for help.