You said, “Do not be afraid.”
This assurance from God is a common biblical refrain, found in numerous passages such as Isaiah 41:10 and Joshua 1:9. It serves as a divine comfort, encouraging believers to trust in God's sovereignty and protection. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, fear was a natural response to the threats of war, exile, and divine judgment. However, God's command to not fear is rooted in His covenant faithfulness and His power to deliver. This phrase also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who frequently told His disciples not to fear (e.g., Matthew 14:27). It underscores the peace that comes from God's presence, a peace that is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who is called "Immanuel," meaning "God with us" (Matthew 1:23).

• The verse begins with an astonishing statement of fact: the Almighty literally came close to the sufferer. In the middle of Jerusalem’s ruin, the writer testifies that God was not distant.

• Psalm 145:18 echoes the same reality: “The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth”.

• Psalm 34:18 reinforces it: “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the crushed in spirit.”

• This nearness is not abstract; it is the personal presence of the covenant-keeping God who chose to dwell among His people (Exodus 25:8; Ezekiel 48:35).

• God’s nearness is linked to prayer. The writer “called,” and the Lord responded.

• Jeremiah 29:12-13 promises the same pattern: “Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart”.

• Psalm 18:6 records David’s identical experience: “In my distress I called upon the LORD… He heard my voice.”

• These passages underline a principle: heartfelt, faith-filled prayer invites the Lord’s immediate attention.

• God is not silent; He speaks directly into the crisis.

• Isaiah 41:13 shows the Lord’s speaking presence: “For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, ‘Do not fear; I will help you.’”

• John 10:27 reminds us that His people still recognize His voice: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.”

• The Lord’s spoken word carries authority to create, heal, and comfort—so when He speaks, the situation changes (Psalm 33:9).

• This is Scripture’s most frequent command. It is never an empty cliché; it flows from God’s own presence and power.

• Isaiah 41:10 grounds it in divine strength: “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

• Joshua 1:9 ties it to obedience and mission: “Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

• Philippians 4:6-7 echoes the same comfort for believers today: replacing anxiety with thankful prayer ushers in “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.”

Lamentations 3:57 is a firsthand testimony that the living God comes close, listens attentively, speaks personally, and banishes fear. The writer’s distress did not push the Lord away; it became the very setting in which divine nearness was experienced. For every believer who calls on Him, these words remain literally true: He draws near, He answers, and He quiets the heart with the unchanging assurance, “Do not be afraid.”