like an enemy

Lamentations 2:1-5 (JDV)

Lamentations 2:1 How the Lord has covered Daughter Zion with the cloud of his anger! He has thrown down Israel’s glory from the sky to the land. He did not acknowledge his footstool in the day of his anger.
Lamentations 2:2 Without compassion the Lord has swallowed up all the dwellings of Jacob. In his wrath he has demolished the fortified cities of Daughter Judah. He brought them to the ground and defiled the kingdom and its leaders.
Lamentations 2:3 He has cut off every horn of Israel in his burning anger and withdrawn his right hand in the presence of the enemy. He has blazed against Jacob like a flaming fire that consumes everything.
Lamentations 2:4 He has strung his bow like an enemy; his right hand is positioned like an adversary. He has killed everyone who was the delight to the eye, pouring out his wrath like fire on the tent of Daughter Zion.
Lamentations 2:5 The Lord is like an enemy; he has swallowed up Israel. He swallowed up all its palaces and destroyed its fortified cities. He has multiplied mourning and lamentation within Daughter Judah.

like an enemy

We need God in our lives, but as a friend, not like an enemy. Judah had so infuriated their Lord that he turned on them, and began treating them like an enemy.

Oh, Father, forgive us, and turn your wrath from us. We need your comfort and your healing. We confess that our sins have brought these trials upon us, but without your help, we have no help. Put down your bow, Lord, and restore your people.