39 Wherefore doth a living man complain, [1] a man for the punishment of his sins?

Other Translations of Lamentations 3:39

New International Version

39 Why should the living complain when punished for their sins?

English Standard Version

39 Why should a living man complain, a man, about the punishment of his sins?

The Message

39 And why would anyone gifted with life complain when punished for sin?

New King James Version

39 Why should a living man complain, A man for the punishment of his sins?

New Living Translation

39 Then why should we, mere humans, complain when we are punished for our sins?

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Lamentations 3:39

Commentary on Lamentations 3:37-41

(Read Lamentations 3:37-41)

While there is life there is hope; and instead of complaining that things are bad, we should encourage ourselves with the hope they will be better. We are sinful men, and what we complain of, is far less than our sins deserve. We should complain to God, and not of him. We are apt, in times of calamity, to reflect on other people's ways, and blame them; but our duty is to search and try our own ways, that we may turn from evil to God. Our hearts must go with our prayers. If inward impressions do not answer to outward expressions, we mock God, and deceive ourselves.