Chapter Summary

Complaint of God's displeasure and comfort to God's people. Appeal to God's justice against persecutors.

Discussion Questions for Lamentations, Chapter 3

1. Why is it important for Jeremiah to say "You come near when I call on You" (HCSB) in verse 57? What does this teach you about God's availability to you, even in suffering? What are ways that you draw near to God in your walk with Him?
2. What is significant about "God's wrath" (HCSB)? What does that teach you about God's character? As a Christian, are you in danger of God's wrath? When have you seen God demonstrate His wrath on others for their sin?
3. What does it mean to "turn back to the Lord" (HCSB) like it says in verse 40? How does repentance impact our relationship with God? In what ways can you examine your heart and actions, and practice repentance and turning back to the Lord?
4. Why will the Israelites "not perish" (HCSB)? How does this description of God's faithful love and mercy exemplify His heart for redemption and restoration? How have you seen God demonstrate His grace to you when you didn't deserve it, in spite of your sin and failures?
5. Why is it important to understand in verse 33 that God "does not enjoy bringing affliction or suffering on mankind" (HCSB)? What does that say about Who He is? How does that differentiate Him from the gods of other false world religions? How does knowing that about God change your mindset when you go through suffering?
6. How do injustice and oppression contribute to Israel's judgment and destruction? Why is it so important for us to understand justice from a God-centered worldview? In what ways can you contribute to a more God-centered and just society where you live?
7. Why does verse 32 say "even if He causes suffering" (HCSB)? How does it make you feel that God Himself might guide us into difficult or negative circumstances? How do you see God's purpose and sovereignty in the trials of your life?
8. Why is it significant that Jeremiah knows God will avenge the the wrongs done to the Israelites? How many times can you find this concept in chapter 3? How does this change your concept of vengeance and getting back with someone? In what ways have you seen God fight on your behalf when someone has hurt or offended you?
9. What does it mean to "wait for" the Lord (HCSB)? How does relying on God in times of trouble increase our faith and hope in Him? What are some instances in which you had to wait on the Lord, and how did it grow your faith?
10. Why does Jeremiah say that God "rejects my prayer" (HCSB) in verse 8? Does this mean that God sometimes does not listen to us? How would you interpret this question? In what ways has it felt like God has not listened to your prayers, and what did you learn from that time?

Key Words/Phrase

Bitterness, v. 15.

Characters

God, Jeremiah.

Strong Verse(s)

22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 31, 32, 33.