Student Connect

Lamenting refers to the expressing of deep sorrow, grief, or regret, which is often directed toward God in prayer. Moreover, the Bible teaches that lamentations are structured expressions of lament, particularly in Jeremiah when he mourns the destruction of Jerusalem. In additional scriptures, lamenting is often used by individuals or communities to cry out to God during times of distress, suffering, or injustice, as shown in Jeremiah 20:7–18 and Habakkuk 1:2–4.

Personally, a notable lamentation of mine was during labor with my child(ren), where I pleaded for his deep strength and relief during the most intense moments of my life. During these times, I felt immense sorrow for any wrongs that I had previously committed and promised to remain faithful. Additionally, I do not hold the belief that God causes suffering Himself, but rather he allows it for our growth, which mirrors biblical truths such as in the story of Job, who suffered as a test of his faith rather than divine judgment.

I believe that Christians suffer for a variety of reasons, including the aforementioned growth, the sins of others, or because of our broken and fallen world. The prophets teach us, in instances like Jeremiah 20:7–18, to be honest in prayer, offering our complaints, pleas, and sorrows without pretense. In Daniel 9:4–19, we find that confessions of sin (personal or communal) were also part of their lament, showing deep humility. Moreover, we can learn to call upon God’s nature, His mercy, His justice, and His faithfulness, as well as appeal to his covenant promises, just as shown in Nehemiah 1:5–11. Finally, Lamentations 3:21-24 shows us that we should end our laments with trust in God’s goodness and have hope for deliverance, proving that lament is not a “lack of faith” but actually an “act of faith.”

Peace be with you all my brothers and sisters in Christ!