What does Lamentations 3:16 mean?

Lamentations 3:16 highlights themes such as suffering, lamentation, despair when read in context.

How should I apply Lamentations 3:16 today?

Read the surrounding passage, compare related cross references, and turn the verse into a short prayer and concrete action.

He hath also broken my teeth with gravel stones, he hath covered me with ashes.

14I was a derision to all my people; and their song all the day.

15He hath filled me with bitterness, he hath made me drunken with wormwood.

16He hath also broken my teeth with gravel stones, he hath covered me with ashes.

17And thou hast removed my soul far off from peace: I forgat prosperity.

18And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the LORD:

sufferinglamentationdespair

Psalm 22:15
Both verses depict a sense of physical and emotional suffering.
Job 30:19
Job also speaks of being covered in ashes as a sign of mourning.
Isaiah 61:3
This verse contrasts the brokenness described here with the promise of restoration.