He hath also broken my teeth with gravel stones, he hath covered me with ashes.
The Prophet gives the faithful language for their deepest suffering so they need not be ashamed to pour out their whole complaint to God. Shame closes the door to Him; but when we dare confess what weighs on us, we find relief. He speaks of teeth worn down by gravel to teach us that our griefs need not be softened or hidden from the Lord.
AI summary
God is angry with His own people, yet it comes as a rod to correct, not a sword to destroy. Walk in darkness though we may, we must not quarrel with affliction, for His anger is just and His chastening, though grievous now, mixed with mercy.
AI summary
Commenting on Lamentations 3:1-20
Gravel bread, flour mixed with grit from new millstones, or bread with stones in it, breaks the teeth when chewed. This figures afflictions as disagreeable as gravel in the mouth. The phrase means real and grievous trouble, not mere discomfort.
AI summary