Study 3 From the Book of
Lamentations is: Lamentations 3
1.
In
verses 1-20 the poet, speaking in the name of the community, pours out his
heart ‘like water before the presence of the Lord’ (2:19). Notice the change
from the minor to the major key at verse 21. What causes it? Do the psalmists’
experiences in Pss. 42:1-5 and 73:16, 17a provide a clue?
2.
Consider
how remarkable is the appearance here, in verse 22-42, of such a noble
expression of assurance concerning God’s mercies. What aspects of God’s
character are most emphasized in these verses, and what should be our attitude
of mind an spirit in time of affliction or chastisement? Cf. Joel 2:12-14. Why
is it both foolish and wrong for a man to complain and murmur in time of
chastisement (verses 37-39)? Cf. Je. 5:19-24; Pr. 19:3.
3.
In
verses 43-54 the poet, in the name of the people, again pours out his heart
before the Lord and, having done so, is strengthened to pray again, and
receives comfort. What is his prayer
(verses 55-66)? What factors in the poet’s situation might lead us not to judge
this prayer for requital too harshly?
Notes
1.
Verse
20. An alternative reading is, ‘Thou wilt surely remember and bow down to me’
(Gottwald)
2.
Verse
38. The word ‘evil’ is used here in the
sense of misfortune or calamity. Cf. Am. 3:6; Is. 45:7.
3.
Verse
63. Cf. Jb. 30:9
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