37 Who can speak and have it happen if the Lord has not decreed it?

Other Translations of Lamentations 3:37

King James Version

37 Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commandeth it not?

English Standard Version

37 Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord has commanded it?

The Message

37 Who do you think "spoke and it happened"? It's the Master who gives such orders.

New King James Version

37 Who is he who speaks and it comes to pass, When the Lord has not commanded it?

New Living Translation

37 Who can command things to happen without the Lord's permission?

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Lamentations 3:37

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.