Lamentations 3:21: “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse marks a turning point in Lamentations 3. After dwelling on his suffering and despair, the writer deliberately shifts his focus. The word “yet” signals a change in perspective. Despite the pain and affliction he has described, the writer chooses to recall something that gives him hope.
This act of “calling to mind” is a deliberate decision to focus on the truth of who God is rather than being overwhelmed by present circumstances. It shows that hope is not rooted in the absence of suffering but in the character and promises of God.
Historical Context
The Book of Lamentations was written during a time of profound suffering for the people of Judah. After the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BC, the survivors faced unimaginable loss—of their city, their temple, and their sense of identity as God’s chosen people.
The writer’s words reflect the struggle to reconcile the reality of judgment with the hope found in God’s unchanging nature. While the visible signs of God’s blessing had been destroyed, His covenant faithfulness remained.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness, even in the midst of suffering. Hope is not a denial of pain but a recognition that God’s promises endure beyond our circumstances.
The act of recalling God’s faithfulness is an expression of faith. It demonstrates trust in God’s character and His ability to bring restoration and renewal, even when the situation seems hopeless.
Literary Analysis
The structure of Lamentations is carefully crafted, and this verse serves as a pivotal moment in the book. The word “yet” contrasts sharply with the despair expressed in the preceding verses, creating a powerful transition from hopelessness to hope.
The phrase “I call to mind” emphasizes the writer’s intentional choice to focus on what is true about God. This deliberate act of remembering sets the stage for the verses that follow, which highlight God’s mercy, love, and faithfulness.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 42:11: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God.” This psalm echoes the decision to hope in God despite difficult circumstances.
- Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” This verse reminds us that hope in God brings renewal and endurance.
- Hebrews 10:23: “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” This verse underscores the faithfulness of God as the foundation of our hope.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, this verse encourages us to choose hope, even in the darkest times. Life’s circumstances can often feel overwhelming, but this verse reminds us that hope is found not in what we see but in who God is.
By calling to mind God’s character and promises, we can find strength and encouragement to persevere through life’s challenges. This verse teaches us that hope is not passive but an active choice to trust God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows that God’s love is the foundation of hope. Even in the midst of judgment and suffering, the writer remembers that God is merciful and faithful. His steadfast love endures, providing a reason to hope when all else seems lost.
God’s love is not dependent on our circumstances. It is constant and unchanging, offering assurance that He is always working for our good, even in the hardest seasons of life.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the source of true and lasting hope. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus demonstrated God’s faithfulness and provided a way for us to be reconciled to Him.
In John 16:33, Jesus says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Through Jesus, we have the assurance that no matter what we face, God’s love and promises remain steadfast.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What truths about God can you “call to mind” when you are facing difficult circumstances?
- How does this verse encourage you to choose hope, even when life feels overwhelming?
- In what ways has God’s faithfulness given you hope in the past?
- How can you share the hope found in Jesus with others who are struggling?
- What steps can you take to focus on God’s promises during challenging times?
Lamentations 3:21 reminds us that hope is not found in our circumstances but in the unchanging character of God. Through Jesus, we have a living hope that endures, no matter what we face.