40 We search our ways, and investigate, And turn back unto Jehovah. 41 We lift up our heart on the hands unto God in the heavens.
42 We—we have transgressed and rebelled, Thou—Thou hast not forgiven. 43 Thou hast covered Thyself with anger, And dost pursue us; Thou hast slain—Thou hast not pitied. 44 Thou hast covered Thyself with a cloud, So that prayer doth not pass through. 45 Offscouring and refuse Thou dost make us In the midst of the peoples. 46 Opened against us their mouth have all our enemies. 47 Fear and a snare hath been for us, Desolation and destruction.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Lamentations 3:40-47
Commentary on Lamentations 3:37-41
(Read Lamentations 3:37-41)
While there is life there is hope; and instead of complaining that things are bad, we should encourage ourselves with the hope they will be better. We are sinful men, and what we complain of, is far less than our sins deserve. We should complain to God, and not of him. We are apt, in times of calamity, to reflect on other people's ways, and blame them; but our duty is to search and try our own ways, that we may turn from evil to God. Our hearts must go with our prayers. If inward impressions do not answer to outward expressions, we mock God, and deceive ourselves.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:42-54
(Read Lamentations 3:42-54)
The more the prophet looked on the desolations, the more he was grieved. Here is one word of comfort. While they continued weeping, they continued waiting; and neither did nor would expect relief and succour from any but the Lord.