Lamentations 5:21

Restore us to Yourself, O LORD, so we may return; renew our days as of old,

Study Bible

Restore us to Yourself, O LORD
This plea reflects the deep desire for reconciliation with God after a period of judgment and exile. The Israelites understood that their separation from God was due to their own sin and disobedience. The call for restoration is a common theme throughout the Old Testament, seen in passages like Psalm 80:3, "Restore us, O God; make Your face shine upon us, that we may be saved." The use of "LORD" (YHWH) emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and Israel, highlighting the need for divine intervention to restore that broken relationship.

so we may return
The phrase indicates repentance and a turning back to God. It suggests that true restoration involves not only God's action but also a response from the people. This is reminiscent of the call to repentance found in Joel 2:12-13, where God invites His people to return to Him with all their heart. The concept of returning is central to the prophetic message, emphasizing that spiritual renewal requires a change of heart and direction.

renew our days as of old
This request looks back to a time when Israel experienced God's favor and blessing, possibly referring to the periods of David and Solomon's reigns when the kingdom was united and prosperous. It echoes the longing for a return to the former glory and peace that characterized Israel's past. The idea of renewal is also prophetic, pointing forward to the ultimate restoration through the Messiah, as seen in Isaiah 65:17, where God promises to create new heavens and a new earth. This renewal is typified in Jesus Christ, who offers new life and restoration to all who believe in Him, fulfilling the hope of a restored relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
Traditionally attributed as the author of Lamentations, Jeremiah is known as the "weeping prophet." He laments the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of the people.

2. Jerusalem
The city that has been destroyed by the Babylonians, leading to the lament and plea for restoration found in Lamentations.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who are experiencing the consequences of their disobedience and are now in exile, seeking restoration and renewal.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, whom the people are pleading with for restoration and renewal.

5. Babylonian Exile
The historical context of Lamentations, where the Israelites are in captivity due to their rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

The Need for Restoration
Recognize that spiritual restoration is essential when we have strayed from God. Just as the Israelites sought restoration, we too must seek to be restored to a right relationship with God.

God's Faithfulness
Trust in God's faithfulness to restore and renew us. Despite the Israelites' unfaithfulness, God remains faithful to His covenant promises.

Repentance and Return
Understand that true restoration begins with repentance. We must turn away from sin and return to God, seeking His forgiveness and renewal.

Hope in Renewal
Embrace the hope that God can renew our days as of old. No matter how far we have fallen, God can restore us to a place of spiritual vitality and joy.

Prayer for Renewal
Make it a practice to pray for personal and communal renewal. Just as the Israelites cried out for restoration, we should regularly seek God's renewing work in our lives and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the plea for restoration in Lamentations 5:21 reveal about the Israelites' understanding of their relationship with God?

2. How can we apply the concept of spiritual restoration in our personal lives today?

3. In what ways does the theme of renewal in Lamentations 5:21 connect with the promises found in other scriptures like Isaiah 40:31 and Psalm 51:10-12?

4. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian Exile enhance our interpretation of Lamentations 5:21?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are continually seeking God's restoration and renewal in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 7:14
This verse speaks about God's promise to heal the land if His people humble themselves, pray, and turn from their wicked ways, which parallels the plea for restoration in Lamentations 5:21.

Psalm 51:10-12
David's prayer for a clean heart and renewal of spirit connects with the theme of renewal and restoration in Lamentations.

Isaiah 40:31
The promise of renewed strength for those who wait on the Lord complements the plea for renewal in Lamentations.

Hosea 6:1-2
The call to return to the Lord for healing and restoration echoes the desire expressed in Lamentations 5:21.