Old Testament
Lamentations 3:38
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Lamentations 3:38, the author reflects on the nature of God's sovereignty over both good and bad experiences in life.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
Don't both disaster and blessing come from the mouth of the Most High?
Out of the mouth of the most High proceedeth not evil and good?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 3:38, the author reflects on the nature of God's sovereignty over both good and bad experiences in life. The verse suggests that everything, whether it seems positive or negative, ultimately comes from God. This challenges the reader to consider how both blessings and hardships can serve a purpose in their lives. The verse emphasizes that God is in control and that His will encompasses all aspects of existence. It invites believers to trust in God's plan, even when faced with suffering or adversity. The duality of good and evil highlights the complexity of life and the divine perspective that transcends human understanding. This understanding can provide comfort during difficult times, reminding us that God is present in every circumstance, guiding us toward growth and resilience.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 3:38 to your life
When facing challenges, remember that both good and bad experiences can come from God. Trust that He has a purpose for everything in your life. Embrace hardships as opportunities for growth and seek to understand how they can lead to greater blessings.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 3:38 mean?
Lamentations 3:38 reflects on God's control over both good and bad experiences in life, suggesting that all circumstances, whether seen as blessings or disasters, ultimately come from Him.
What is the meaning of evil and good in Lamentations 3:38?
In Lamentations 3:38, 'evil and good' represents the dual nature of life's experiences, indicating that both positive and negative events are part of God's sovereign plan.
How can Lamentations 3:38 help during tough times?
Lamentations 3:38 can provide comfort by reminding us that both hardships and blessings serve a purpose in our lives, encouraging us to trust in God's overarching plan.
What themes are present in Lamentations 3:38?
Key themes in Lamentations 3:38 include God's sovereignty, the coexistence of good and evil, divine purpose, and the importance of trusting God through life's complexities.

The Book of Lamentations
Lamentations 1: Jerusalem’s Sorrow
The narrator describes Jerusalem sitting alone like a widow who once was great among the nations. The city that was princess among provinces now becomes a slave, and she weeps bitterly in the night with tears on her cheeks. None of her lovers comfort her, and all her friends deal treacherously with her and become her enemies. Judah goes into captivity because of affliction and great servitude, and she dwells among the nations but finds no rest. Her pursuers overtake her between narrow places, and the ways of Zion mourn because no one comes to the solemn feasts.
Unlock the full Lamentations summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Lamentations — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 5 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Lamentations summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.