Lamentations 5:21
Turne thou vs vnto thee, O Lord, and we shall be turned: renew our dayes as of old. Lamentations 5:21 (KJV)
The book of Lamentations, traditionally ascribed to the prophet Jeremiah, is a collection of poetic laments composed after the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE. It conveys deep sorrow, grief, and national repentance for the sins that brought exile and devastation upon Judah.
In Lamentations 5:21 the people cry, “Turn us unto thee, O LORD, that we may be turned.” This plea acknowledges that their broken relationship with God requires divine initiative. They recognize their dire condition and ask the Lord to begin the process of restoration, expressing humility and dependence on Him for spiritual renewal.
The second petition, “Renew our days as of old,” asks God to restore the blessings and favor of former days before the catastrophe. The mourners long for a revival of the conditions they once enjoyed, trusting in God’s faithfulness to bring about a renewal that surpasses their present desolation.
The verse reminds believers today of the importance of recognizing our need for God. Like the people of Judah, we must admit that we cannot restore ourselves or our circumstances apart from divine involvement. Approaching God with a contrite heart invites His guidance and transformative power in our lives.
The prayer also reflects confidence in God’s faithfulness. The people believed that He could turn their fortunes around and bring beauty from ashes. This assurance encourages us that, no matter how dire our situation, God is capable of restoring and renewing our lives, turning mourning into joy.
Finally, the request to “turn us unto thee” implies a desire for spiritual revival—a return to intimate fellowship with God. It challenges us to examine our hearts, repent of sin, and recommit to a vibrant, active faith that seeks continual renewal.
In summary, Lamentations 5:21 captures Judah’s heartfelt plea for divine intervention, restoration, and revival. It calls us to depend on God, trust in His faithful restoration, and pursue a renewed relationship with Him, confident that He can renew our days as of old.
