A prayer for mercy from Jeremiah

Compared to other Biblical prophets, the book of Jeremiah offers fascinating glimpses into the (often despondent) psychology of its author. Simply put, Jeremiah did not seem to enjoy his job as a prophet!

As an example of a window into Jeremiah's mind, consider his prayer for mercy on behalf of the Hebrew people (Jeremiah 14:20-21, KJV),

We acknowledge, O LORD, our wickedness, and the iniquity of our fathers: for we have sinned against thee.

Do not abhor us, for thy name's sake, do not disgrace the throne of thy glory: remember, break not thy covenant with us.

The first sentence offers a humble acknowledgement of sin. The second sentence asks God to temper his punishment, but note the reason for Jeremiah's wanting mercy. Not because the people deserve mercy. Not because the people promise thereafter to remain obedient. Rather, Jeremiah requests mercy for God's "name sake." Jeremiah requests mercy because humans are the "throne" of God's glory.

The point is, everything we do, including repenting, should be for God's glory, and his glory alone.