King James Version
What Does Lamentations 3:31 Mean?
“For the Lord will not cast off for ever:”
Context
29
He putteth his mouth in the dust; if so be there may be hope.
30
He giveth his cheek to him that smiteth him: he is filled full with reproach.
31
For the Lord will not cast off for ever:
32
But though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies.
33
For he doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men. willingly: Heb. from his heart
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(31) **For the Lord . . .**—The counsels of submission are followed by the grounds of hope. The first, a quotation from Psalm 77:7, had been of old a favourite thought of the writer’s (Jeremiah 3:5; Jeremiah 3:12). The second (Lamentations 3:32) rests on the fact that compassion underlies chastisement (Psalm 30:5; Job 5:18; Isaiah 54:8); the third (Lamentations 3:33) on the truth that the primary eternal will of God is on the side of love, and that punishment is, as it were, against that will.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Lamentations. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Lamentations 3:31 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Lamentations 3:31
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge