How does the author describe the circumstances in Jerusalem in 5:2-14? How might this give us insight into his state of mind?

5:7 says that the Israelites were bearing the iniquities of their fathers. What are some ways that the consequences of sin can affect people around us? How can the consequences of sin span across generations?

How does the author describe the emotional response of the people of Jerusalem to these circumstances in 5:15-18?

How does the author respond in 5:19-22? What truths does he acknowledge about God? What questions does he wrestle with about God? What does he pray and ask God for?

How do sadness and mourning help us to grow in godliness? How do they help us to process, and persevere through, and respond to tragedy and suffering in our lives?

The author is wrestling with real, serious questions about the character of God (5:20, 22), and yet, still resolves to trust in God (5:19), and pray for grace (5:21). How can we make room for healthy questions and doubts in our lives, and in the lives of those around us? How can we fight to trust in the character of God, in the midst of those questions and doubts?

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