DAB October 30, 2026

I am a man familiar with affliction under the rod of God's anger.

He has led me, brought me into darkness, not into light.

He truly turned his hand against me again and again all day long.

He made my flesh and skin prematurely old.

He broke my bones.

He laid siege against me, surrounding me with bitterness and suffering.

He forced me to live in darkness like those who are long dead.

He has walled me in so I cannot escape.

He placed heavy chains on me.

Indeed, when I cry out, calling for help, he shuts out my prayer.

He impeded my way with blocks of stone, making my paths uneven.

He is like a bear that lies in wait for me, a lion in hiding.

He forced me off my path, tearing me to pieces and making me desolate.

He bent his bow, aiming at me with his arrow.

He caused his war arrows to pierce my vital organs.

I have become a laughing stock to all my people, the object of their taunts throughout the day.

He has filled me with bitterness, making me drink wormwood.

He broke my teeth on gravel, covering me with dust.

You have removed peace from my life.

I have forgotten what prosperity is.

So I say, my strength is gone, as is my hope in the Lord.

Remember my affliction and homelessness, wormwood and gall.

My mind keeps reflecting on it and I become depressed.

This is what comes to mind and therefore I have hope.

Because of the Lord's gracious love, we are not consumed since His compassions never end.