Lamentations 3:64: “Pay them back what they deserve, Lord, for what their hands have done.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse is a cry for justice. The writer appeals to God to repay his enemies according to their actions. The phrase “what their hands have done” emphasizes accountability, asking God to judge the wrongdoers based on their deeds.
This request for divine retribution reflects the writer’s confidence in God’s justice. Instead of taking matters into his own hands, the writer turns to God, trusting Him to act righteously. It shows faith that God sees everything and will bring about justice in His perfect timing.
Historical Context
Lamentations was written after Jerusalem’s destruction by the Babylonians in 586 BC. The people of Judah had experienced devastating loss, and the writer, likely Jeremiah, faced personal persecution and rejection.
This verse reflects the suffering and injustice endured by the writer and the nation as a whole. It may also echo the taunts and cruelty of the Babylonians and others who mocked Judah’s downfall. In this context, the writer’s appeal to God for justice is both personal and communal, seeking vindication for the wrongs inflicted on God’s people.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s role as the ultimate judge. It reassures believers that justice belongs to God and that He will repay each person according to their deeds. This truth encourages believers to entrust their hurts and injustices to God rather than seeking personal revenge.
The verse also emphasizes accountability. It reminds us that our actions matter and that God is aware of everything we do. His justice ensures that no wrong goes unnoticed or unaddressed.
Literary Analysis
The verse is direct and forceful, reflecting the writer’s deep emotions and longing for justice. The repetition of “pay them back” reinforces the plea for God to act decisively against wrongdoers.
The phrase “what their hands have done” adds a sense of poetic justice, emphasizing that the judgment requested is proportional and fair, based on the actions of the enemies themselves. This mirrors the biblical principle of God’s justice being perfectly measured and righteous.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 32:35: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near, and their doom rushes upon them.” This verse affirms God’s authority to bring justice.
- Psalm 94:1-2: “The Lord is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth. Rise up, Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve.” This psalm echoes the cry for God’s justice.
- Romans 12:19: “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” This verse encourages believers to trust in God’s justice rather than seeking their own.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, this verse is a reminder to entrust all injustices to God. It encourages believers to resist the temptation to seek revenge and instead rely on God’s perfect justice.
The verse also serves as a challenge to examine our own actions. Just as we trust God to hold others accountable, we must remember that He also holds us accountable for our deeds. This awareness should inspire humility, repentance, and a commitment to live in alignment with God’s will.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love through His commitment to justice. His role as the ultimate judge ensures that wrongs are addressed and that His people are not left to suffer without hope of vindication.
God’s love is also evident in His patience and mercy. While He is just, He also provides opportunities for repentance and restoration. His justice is not arbitrary but deeply rooted in His righteous character and His care for His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who bore the ultimate punishment for sin on the cross. Through His sacrifice, God’s justice and mercy were fully displayed. Jesus took upon Himself the judgment we deserved, offering forgiveness and restoration to all who trust in Him.
In Revelation 19:11, Jesus is described as a righteous judge who will one day return to bring justice to the earth: “With justice he judges and wages war.” This affirms that Jesus will ultimately right every wrong and bring about God’s perfect justice.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to trust God with the injustices you face?
- In what ways can you resist the temptation to seek personal revenge and instead rely on God’s justice?
- How does Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross deepen your understanding of God’s justice and mercy?
- What actions or attitudes in your own life need to be brought into alignment with God’s standards of justice?
- How can you share the message of God’s justice and love with others who are struggling with feelings of injustice?
Lamentations 3:64 reminds us that God is the ultimate judge, fully aware of every wrong and perfectly just in His actions. Through Jesus, we have the assurance of both justice and mercy, giving us hope and peace in every situation.