Lamentations 3
BSB1 I am the man who has seen affliction under the rod of God’s wrath. 2 He has driven me away and made me walk in darkness instead of light. 3 Indeed, He keeps turning His hand against me all day long. 4 He has worn away my flesh and skin; He has shattered my bones. 5 He has besieged me and surrounded me with bitterness and hardship. 6 He has made me dwell in darkness like those dead for ages. 7 He has walled me in so I cannot escape; He has weighed me down with chains. 8 Even when I cry out and plead for help, He shuts out my prayer. 9 He has barred my ways with cut stones; He has made my paths crooked. 10 He is a bear lying in wait, a lion hiding in ambush. 11 He forced me off my path and tore me to pieces; He left me without help. 12 He bent His bow and set me as the target for His arrow. 13 He pierced my kidneys with His arrows. 14 I am a laughingstock to all my people; they mock me in song all day long. 15 He has filled me with bitterness; He has intoxicated me with wormwood. 16 He has ground my teeth with gravel and trampled me in the dust. 17 My soul has been deprived of peace; I have forgotten what prosperity is. 18 So I say, “My strength has perished, along with my hope from the LORD." 19 Remember my affliction and wandering, the wormwood and the gall. 20 Surely my soul remembers and is humbled within me. 21 Yet I call this to mind, and therefore I have hope: 22 Because of the loving devotion of the LORD we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. 23 They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! 24 “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in Him." 25 The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. 26 It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. 27 It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is still young. 28 Let him sit alone in silence, for God has disciplined him. 29 Let him bury his face in the dust— perhaps there is still hope. 30 Let him offer his cheek to the one who would strike him; let him be filled with reproach. 31 For the Lord will not cast us off forever. 32 Even if He causes grief, He will show compassion according to His abundant loving devotion. 33 For He does not willingly afflict or grieve the sons of men. 34 To crush underfoot all the prisoners of the land, 35 to deny a man justice before the Most High, 36 to subvert a man in his lawsuit— of these the Lord does not approve. 37 Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord has ordained it? 38 Do not both adversity and good come from the mouth of the Most High? 39 Why should any mortal man complain, in view of his sins? 40 Let us examine and test our ways, and turn back to the LORD. 41 Let us lift up our hearts and hands to God in heaven: 42 “We have sinned and rebelled; You have not forgiven." 43 You have covered Yourself in anger and pursued us; You have killed without pity. 44 You have covered Yourself with a cloud that no prayer can pass through. 45 You have made us scum and refuse among the nations. 46 All our enemies open their mouths against us. 47 Panic and pitfall have come upon us— devastation and destruction. 48 Streams of tears flow from my eyes over the destruction of the daughter of my people. 49 My eyes overflow unceasingly, without relief, 50 until the LORD looks down from heaven and sees. 51 My eyes bring grief to my soul because of all the daughters of my city. 52 Without cause my enemies hunted me like a bird. 53 They dropped me alive into a pit and cast stones upon me. 54 The waters flowed over my head, and I thought I was going to die. 55 I called on Your name, O LORD, out of the depths of the Pit. 56 You heard my plea: “Do not ignore my cry for relief." 57 You drew near when I called on You; You said, “Do not be afraid." 58 You defend my cause, O Lord; You redeem my life. 59 You have seen, O LORD, the wrong done to me; vindicate my cause! 60 You have seen all their malice, all their plots against me. 61 O LORD, You have heard their insults, all their plots against me— 62 the slander and murmuring of my assailants against me all day long. 63 When they sit and when they rise, see how they mock me in song. 64 You will pay them back what they deserve, O LORD, according to the work of their hands. 65 Put a veil of anguish over their hearts; may Your curse be upon them! 66 You will pursue them in anger and exterminate them from under Your heavens, O LORD.
Study Notes — Lamentations 3
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Lamentations 3
- Themes from Lamentations 3
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Lamentations 3
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Lamentations 3 begins with a cry of despair, as the author describes the darkness and bitterness that have enveloped him (Lamentations 3:1-20). He feels abandoned by God, yet he also acknowledges that God's mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). The chapter takes a turn as the author reflects on the goodness of God, even in the midst of suffering, and he encourages himself to wait patiently for God's deliverance (Lamentations 3:24-33). The chapter concludes with a expression of trust in God's sovereignty and a call to repentance (Lamentations 3:40-66).
Context for the Chapter
Lamentations 3 is part of a larger book that mourns the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the Israelites. The chapter fits within the broader narrative of the Old Testament, which tells the story of God's relationship with his people. The author's reflections on suffering and hope are set against the backdrop of Israel's history, including the covenant promises and the prophets' warnings.
Heart Application
As we read Lamentations 3, we are reminded that suffering is a universal human experience. Yet, even in the midst of darkness, we can trust in God's faithfulness and mercies. This chapter encourages us to wait patiently for God's deliverance, to trust in his goodness, and to express our hope in him.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Lamentations 3 is a chapter about suffering and hope. The author describes his pain and sadness, but he also trusts in God's goodness and faithfulness. We can learn from his example to wait patiently for God's deliverance and to trust in his mercies, which are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Voices from the Church
“The mercies of God are not like the morning dew, which is soon evaporated, but they are new every morning, and they never come to an end.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The prophet, in the midst of his sufferings, does not cease to acknowledge the goodness of God, and to express his confidence in his faithfulness.”
— John Calvin
“The chapter teaches us to trust in God's faithfulness, even when we are surrounded by darkness and suffering.”
— Martin Luther
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to suffering (Lamentations 3:1-20) — The author describes his experience of darkness and suffering, feeling abandoned by God.
- Expression of trust (Lamentations 3:21-25) — The author affirms his trust in God's faithfulness and mercies, which are new every morning.
- Call to repentance (Lamentations 3:40-47) — The author encourages himself and others to repent and return to God, acknowledging their sins and trusting in his goodness.
- Conclusion (Lamentations 3:64-66) — The chapter concludes with a expression of trust in God's sovereignty and a call to wait patiently for his deliverance.
- Final thoughts (Lamentations 3:52-66) — The author reflects on the importance of trusting in God's goodness, even in the midst of suffering, and encourages others to do the same.
Core Doctrines
- Sovereignty of God
- Lamentations 3 teaches us that God is sovereign over all things, including our suffering. We can trust in his goodness and faithfulness, even when we do not understand his ways.
- Faithfulness of God
- The chapter emphasizes God's faithfulness, which is a fundamental aspect of his character. We can rely on his promises and trust in his mercies, which are new every morning.
- Hope in suffering
- Lamentations 3 shows us that hope is possible, even in the midst of suffering. We can wait patiently for God's deliverance, trusting in his goodness and faithfulness.
- Importance of repentance
- The chapter encourages us to repent and return to God, acknowledging our sins and trusting in his goodness. Repentance is a crucial aspect of our relationship with God.
Lessons from Lamentations 3
- Trust in God's faithfulness — Lamentations 3 teaches us to trust in God's faithfulness, even when we do not understand his ways. We can rely on his promises and trust in his mercies, which are new every morning.
- Hope in suffering — The chapter shows us that hope is possible, even in the midst of suffering. We can wait patiently for God's deliverance, trusting in his goodness and faithfulness.
- Importance of repentance — Lamentations 3 encourages us to repent and return to God, acknowledging our sins and trusting in his goodness. Repentance is a crucial aspect of our relationship with God.
- Sovereignty of God — The chapter teaches us that God is sovereign over all things, including our suffering. We can trust in his goodness and faithfulness, even when we do not understand his ways.
- Expression of trust — Lamentations 3 encourages us to express our trust in God, even in the midst of darkness and suffering. We can wait patiently for his deliverance, trusting in his goodness and faithfulness.
Themes from Lamentations 3
- Suffering and hope — Lamentations 3 explores the theme of suffering and hope, showing us that even in the midst of darkness, we can trust in God's faithfulness and mercies.
- Faithfulness of God — The chapter emphasizes God's faithfulness, which is a fundamental aspect of his character. We can rely on his promises and trust in his mercies, which are new every morning.
- Trust in God's sovereignty — Lamentations 3 teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when we do not understand his ways. We can trust in his goodness and faithfulness, even in the midst of suffering.
- Importance of repentance — The chapter encourages us to repent and return to God, acknowledging our sins and trusting in his goodness. Repentance is a crucial aspect of our relationship with God.
- Expression of trust — Lamentations 3 encourages us to express our trust in God, even in the midst of darkness and suffering. We can wait patiently for his deliverance, trusting in his goodness and faithfulness.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways that you have experienced suffering in your life, and how have you responded to it?
- How does Lamentations 3 encourage you to trust in God's faithfulness and mercies?
- What are some ways that you can express your hope in God, even in the midst of darkness and suffering?
- How can you apply the lessons of Lamentations 3 to your own life, trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness?
- What are some ways that you can encourage others to trust in God's faithfulness and mercies, especially in times of suffering?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to suffering (Lamentations 3:1-20)
| Lamentations 3:1 | The author describes his experience of darkness and suffering, feeling abandoned by God. |
| Lamentations 3:2 | He feels that God has turned against him, and that he is surrounded by darkness and despair. |
2. Expression of trust (Lamentations 3:21-25)
| Lamentations 3:21 | The author affirms his trust in God's faithfulness and mercies, which are new every morning. |
| Lamentations 3:22 | He celebrates God's mercies, which are new every morning, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance. |
3. Call to repentance (Lamentations 3:40-47)
| Lamentations 3:40 | The author encourages himself and others to repent and return to God, acknowledging their sins and trusting in his goodness. |
| Lamentations 3:41 | He calls on the people to lift up their hearts and hands to God, seeking his mercy and forgiveness. |
4. Conclusion (Lamentations 3:64-66)
| Lamentations 3:64 | The chapter concludes with a expression of trust in God's sovereignty and a call to wait patiently for his deliverance. |
| Lamentations 3:65 | The author trusts in God's goodness and faithfulness, even in the midst of suffering and darkness. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Lamentations 3?
The main theme of Lamentations 3 is suffering and hope. The author describes his experience of darkness and suffering, yet he also affirms his trust in God's faithfulness and mercies, which are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).
How does the author of Lamentations 3 respond to suffering?
The author responds to suffering by expressing his trust in God's faithfulness and mercies. He affirms that God's mercies are new every morning, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance (Lamentations 3:22-23).
What is the significance of Lamentations 3:22-23?
Lamentations 3:22-23 is significant because it expresses the author's confidence in God's faithfulness and mercies. The verse reminds us that God's mercies are not limited, but are instead new every morning, offering hope for a brighter future.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lamentations 3:1 → Job 3:1 | Both Lamentations 3:1 and Job 3:1 describe the experience of darkness and suffering, feeling abandoned by God. |
| 2 | Lamentations 3:22 → Psalm 136:1 | Both Lamentations 3:22 and Psalm 136:1 celebrate God's mercies, which are new every morning, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance. |
| 3 | Lamentations 3:24 → Isaiah 40:31 | Both Lamentations 3:24 and Isaiah 40:31 encourage us to wait patiently for God's deliverance, trusting in his goodness and faithfulness. |
| 4 | Lamentations 3:25 → Matthew 5:4 | Both Lamentations 3:25 and Matthew 5:4 encourage us to trust in God's goodness, even in the midst of suffering and darkness. |
| 5 | Lamentations 3:40 → 1 John 1:9 | Both Lamentations 3:40 and 1 John 1:9 encourage us to repent and return to God, acknowledging our sins and trusting in his goodness. |
| 6 | Lamentations 3:41 → Psalm 51:17 | Both Lamentations 3:41 and Psalm 51:17 call on the people to lift up their hearts and hands to God, seeking his mercy and forgiveness. |
| 7 | Lamentations 3:64 → Romans 8:28 | Both Lamentations 3:64 and Romans 8:28 encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of suffering and darkness. |
| 8 | Lamentations 3:65 → Hebrews 13:5 | The author trusts in God's goodness and faithfulness, even in the midst of suffering and darkness. |
| 9 | Lamentations 3:22-23 → Lamentations 3:1-20 | The expression of trust in Lamentations 3:22-23 is a response to the suffering described in Lamentations 3:1-20. |
| 10 | Lamentations 3:40-47 → Jeremiah 31:31-34 | The call to repentance in Lamentations 3:40-47 is reminiscent of the new covenant described in Jeremiah 31:31-34. |
Sermons on Lamentations 3
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
A Touch From God - Part 3 by David Wilkerson | This sermon emphasizes the importance of waiting on the Lord and seeking His presence, highlighting the consequences of spiritual adultery and the need to come out from places of d |
|
Pouring Oil on Your Pillow by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of offering a sacrifice of praise to God, even in difficult situations. He highlights the verse from Romans 8:28, which state |
|
|
I Want My Portion Now! by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of backsliding and encourages the audience to examine their reasons for coming to church. He emphasizes the importance of personal |
|
The Power of Faith - Alone With God by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher expresses a desire for manifestations of God that cannot be logically explained, particularly in prison cells in Russia and other countries. He critici |
|
Afflictions of God's People by John Murray | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the idea that there is no arbitrariness in God. He emphasizes that this truth is not an anti-climax, but rather a pinnacle of faith. The pre |
|
A Personal Promise by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David from the book of 1 Samuel. David goes from being an unknown shepherd boy to a famous warrior and leader of the army. Howeve |
|
|
The Heart of God in the Wilderness by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the depth of God's love for humanity. He highlights the lack of revelation and vision in society, which lead |
|
What Will Keep You on the Mission Field? by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of practical religion and giving one's life away to God. He believes that many people in churches are unconverted or lack a t |
|
The Novelties of Divine Mercy by C.H. Spurgeon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the faithfulness and compassion of God towards His people. He encourages the listeners to be content with what they have, reminding them of |
|
Blood on Your Hands by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes God's unfailing compassion and faithfulness towards the house of Israel. He highlights the influence our lives have on others, particularly |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Lamentations 3
Matthew Henry's commentary on Lamentations 3 highlights the author's expression of trust in God's faithfulness and mercies, despite the experience of suffering and darkness. Henry notes that the chapter encourages us to wait patiently for God's deliverance, trusting in his goodness and faithfulness. He also emphasizes the importance of repentance, calling on the people to lift up their hearts and hands to God, seeking his mercy and forgiveness. Throughout the commentary, Henry emphasizes God's character, highlighting his sovereignty, faithfulness, and mercies. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Contrast between darkness and light
The chapter contrasts the author's experience of darkness and suffering with the hope of God's goodness and faithfulness. This contrast highlights the tension between the present reality and the future promise.
Use of metaphor
The author employs metaphors, such as darkness and light, to describe his emotional state and spiritual experience. These metaphors add depth and richness to the text.
Expression of trust
The author's expression of trust in God, despite suffering, is a notable feature of the chapter. This trust is rooted in God's faithfulness and mercies.