Lamentations 3:14-21 I was a derision to all my people; and their song all the day.… 1. This sorrow did arise especially from the derision they were in by their adversaries, and yet it being ascribed unto the Lord, teaches us that there is no outward trouble more grievous to the godly than to be reproached by their adversaries in the time of their affliction. 2. There is no outward trouble more grievous to the godly than to be reproached by their adversaries in the time of their affliction. (1) Because we are much comforted in the hope that our sufferings shall advance the truth, which professed derision hindereth. (2) Such reproaches are accompanied with much blasphemy and wickedness. (3) Such dealing carrieth many weak professors from the affecting of our cause and sufferings. 3. The godly have often upon them all the greatest griefs that can be desired. 4. It is the Lord above that frameth our hearts to be affected with our afflictions, else they remain stony and astonished. 5. The godly may not be as Stoics, but must be most passionate in their afflictions. (1) Because their sins procure them their troubles, which ought to grieve them most of all, that God is offended with them. (2) God afflicteth us that we should repent, which we cannot do without great remorse. 6. The godly are often so laden with miseries, that they are exceedingly distracted therewith, both in body and mind. (J. Udall.) Parallel Verses KJV: I was a derision to all my people; and their song all the day.WEB: I am become a derision to all my people, and their song all the day. |