What is the meaning of Lamentations 3:57? You drew near • 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). when I called on You • 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. You said • 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). “Do not be afraid.” • 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.” summary 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.” |
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