Lamentations 5:20

Why have You forgotten us forever? Why have You forsaken us for so long?

Study Bible

Why do You forget us forever
The phrase "Why do You forget us forever" is a poignant cry from the heart of the Israelites, expressing a deep sense of abandonment. The Hebrew root for "forget" is "שָׁכַח" (shakach), which conveys not just a lapse in memory but a deliberate overlooking or neglect. In the historical context, this lament arises from the aftermath of Jerusalem's destruction and the Babylonian exile. The Israelites felt as though God had turned His back on them permanently. This phrase reflects a theological struggle, as the Israelites grapple with the tension between God's covenant promises and their current suffering. It is a reminder of the human tendency to feel forgotten in times of distress, yet it also invites believers to trust in God's unchanging nature and His ultimate plan for redemption.

why do You forsake us for so long?
The word "forsake" comes from the Hebrew "עָזַב" (azab), meaning to leave, abandon, or desert. This term is often used in the context of covenant relationships, where one party fails to uphold their commitments. The Israelites' use of this word underscores their perception of a broken relationship with God. Historically, this lament is set against the backdrop of the Babylonian exile, a period marked by profound loss and dislocation. The phrase "for so long" emphasizes the duration of their suffering, highlighting the endurance of their trial and the depth of their longing for restoration. In a broader scriptural context, this cry echoes the Psalms and other prophetic writings where God's people plead for His presence and intervention. For contemporary believers, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance in faith, even when God's presence seems distant. It encourages a steadfast hope in God's faithfulness and His promise to never truly abandon His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
- Traditionally attributed as the author of Lamentations, Jeremiah is known as the "weeping prophet." He lamented the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of his people.

2. Jerusalem
- The city that faced destruction by the Babylonians in 586 B.C., which is the backdrop for the book of Lamentations.

3. Babylonian Exile
- The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, leading to the lament and questioning of God's presence and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Lament
Lamentations 5:20 teaches us that it is okay to bring our deepest fears and questions to God. Lament is a biblical way to process pain and seek understanding.

God's Faithfulness Amidst Silence
Even when God seems silent or distant, His faithfulness remains. The feeling of being forgotten does not equate to being abandoned.

The Importance of Remembering God's Promises
In times of distress, recalling God's promises can provide comfort and hope. Scripture is filled with reminders of God's enduring presence and love.

Community in Suffering
The communal nature of the lament in Lamentations reminds us of the importance of supporting one another in times of trial and seeking God together.

Hope in Restoration
The cry in Lamentations 5:20 ultimately points towards a hope for restoration and renewal, encouraging believers to trust in God's redemptive plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the feeling of being forgotten by God, as expressed in Lamentations 5:20, resonate with your personal experiences of faith?

2. In what ways can the practice of lament, as seen in Lamentations, be a healthy part of your spiritual life?

3. How do other scriptures, such as Deuteronomy 31:6, provide reassurance when you feel forsaken or forgotten by God?

4. What role does community play in helping you navigate feelings of spiritual desolation, as seen in the communal lament of Lamentations?

5. How can you actively remember and rely on God's promises during times when He seems distant or silent?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 13
This Psalm echoes a similar cry of feeling forgotten by God, showing a pattern of lament in the Scriptures where the faithful express their anguish and seek God's presence.

Isaiah 49:14-15
These verses address the fear of being forgotten by God, but also provide reassurance of God's unfailing memory and compassion towards His people.

Deuteronomy 31:6
This verse promises that God will never leave nor forsake His people, providing a contrast to the feelings expressed in Lamentations 5:20.