Lamentations 3:56 - Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary

Lamentations 3:56 states, "Thou heardest my voice: hide not thine ear at my breathing, at my cry." This verse captures the deep plea of the author, reflecting sorrow and desperation while seeking divine attention and mercy. Below, we explore a comprehensive understanding of this verse, drawing from several public domain commentaries, laying out the Bible verse meanings, Bible verse interpretations, and Bible verse explanations to help deepen your Bible study insights.

General Context

Lamentations is traditionally attributed to the prophet Jeremiah and expresses profound grief over the destruction of Jerusalem. The themes of suffering, desolation, and the hope for restoration are prevalent throughout this book. In Chapter 3, the author shifts from personal lament to a collective reflection on the sin and punishment of Israel.

Verse Analysis

In this specific verse, we can extract several points regarding the author's plea:

• A Cry for Attention: The phrase "Thou heardest my voice" indicates a belief that God has indeed heard his initial supplications, but there is a yearning for ongoing divine attention.
• Desperation in Plea: The mention of "my breathing, at my cry" encapsulates a powerful expression of distress, suggesting that the speaker feels overwhelmed and seeks immediate help.
• Divine Communication: The verse signifies the importance of prayer. It shows the connection between the believer's cry and the responsiveness of God.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry explains that the affliction may lead the speaker to believe that God distances Himself from their cries. However, Henry emphasizes that God is always near, and the cry of the heart demands acknowledgment. The passage reflects the essence of persistent prayer and encourages believers to bring their woes before God.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes reflects on the juxtaposition of despair and hope in this verse. He notes that God’s silence often feeds doubt, yet it’s crucial to continue seeking Him in sorrow. Barnes highlights that the act of crying out is an expression of faith, even amidst suffering.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke points out the intimate nature of this plea. He reminds readers that the reference to breathing indicates an urgency in prayer, suggesting that in times of crisis, one's very existence is tied to their cry for divine assistance. Clarke also describes the promise of God listening to the cries of His people, reinforcing the theme that God is attentive to suffering.

Theological Significance

Lamentations 3:56 serves as a reminder that God is always available to listen. This verse provides insight into God’s character as compassionate and responsive. It reflects the essential practice of prayer in the life of a believer, affirming that expressing distress is not a sign of a lack of faith but a means to connect with God's mercy.

Practical Applications

This scripture can lead to various applications in individual lives and group settings:

• Prayer Resources: Utilize this verse in Bible study groups to encourage open discussions about prayer and its significance in times of trouble.
• Understanding Emotional Distress: Incorporate studies on this verse when discussing understanding difficult Bible passages or experiencing emotional distress.
• Practical Troubleshooting: In online Bible study courses, relate this verse to modern-day challenges, showing its relevance.

Related Bible Cross References

• Psalms 34:17: "The righteous cry, and the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles."
• Psalms 102:1: "Hear my prayer, O LORD; let my cry come to You."
• Jeremiah 29:12: "Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you."

Conclusion

Lamentations 3:56 resonates deeply with anyone experiencing sorrow and the feeling of being unheard. The cumulative insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke remind readers of the power of prayer and the unwavering nature of God’s presence. As part of Bible study lessons encompassing this verse, participants can explore the dynamics of their own cries to God, revealing the profound longing for His touch amid suffering.