Definition: For thus saith the LORD, Enter not into the house of mourning, neither go to lament nor bemoan them: for I have taken away my peace from this people, saith the LORD, [even] lovingkindness and mercies.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 16:5. It's a really important message about how we should react to suffering and grief. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: God is saying that He doesn’t want people to be sad or mourn over the pain of others. He’s deliberately withdrawing His peace – his comfort and blessing – from a group experiencing loss or hardship. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "For thus saith the LORD..." : This is God speaking directly to us. It’s a serious statement. "...Enter not into the house of mourning..." : This means don't be involved in their sorrow, don’t participate in their grief. Don't offer comfort or sympathy. "...neither go to lament nor bemoan them..." : This is about avoiding expressing sadness or worry about others. It’s about not dwelling on the negative. "...Saith the LORD..." : This is God's own words, emphasizing his perspective and judgment. "[even] lovingkindness and mercies." : This is the crucial part. God is giving love and mercy – forgiveness, compassion, and kindness – even to those who are suffering. He’s choosing to prioritize these qualities over their pain. So, what does this mean practically? It's a reminder that: God cares deeply about our well-being. He doesn’t just want us to be comfortable; he wants us to experience joy and peace too. We should be gentle and compassionate when others are hurting. Instead of trying to fix their problems, we need to offer support and understanding. God's love is a powerful force. It can even outweigh the pain and suffering around us. In essence, this verse encourages us to be a source of comfort and grace without getting caught up in their misery. It’s about choosing to focus on God’s goodness and offering hope amidst hardship. Do you want me to: Explain it further with an example? Talk about the context of this verse within the larger story of Jeremiah's prophecies?