PRACTICING LAMENT STANZA 1: Line 1: Who I know God to be right now Line 2: The cause of my lament - why I cry out Line 3: What the situation makes me feel about God Line 4: What I long to see happen in the situation STANZA 2: Line 5: (repeat line 2 of stanza 1) Line 6: new line Line 7: (repeat line 4 of stanza 1) Line 8: new line STANZA 3: Line 9: (repeat line 6 of stanza 2) Line 10: (repeat line 3 of stanza 1) Line 11: (repeat line 8 of stanza 2) Line 12: (repeat line 1 of stanza 1) A lament is a spiritual practice modeled for us in the Bible. It is more than just the expression of sorrow or the venting of emotion. It is an invitation to pour out our fears, frustrations, and sorrows to God. This leads us to intentional transparency and connection with God, even and especially in times of pain or hardship. We invite you to use this tool to talk to God about the pain you feel and trust Him in your circumstance. Take some time to reflect on the situation and feelings you are bringing to God. What do you want to say to God? How do you hope God will work in whatever you are facing? Is there something you’re angry or frustrated with God about? Try to be as open and honest as you can, knowing that God invites us to bring even our rawest emotions to Him. Below is a structure that to help organize some of your thoughts into a prayer of lament. You can use this as a guide or organize your prayer however you choose. For an example of this structure in use, see the next page. We also encourage you to read some examples of lament in the Bible, such as Psalm 22, 88 or 142. Resource from Anam Cara Ministries | Used with permissionHere’s an example from one of our pastors of a lament using this structure: STANZA 1: God you are by my side. My heart weeps tears of grief, and tears for those I love who are in overwhelming places. Where is your hope? It feels out of reach. Where are the answers that bring healing, freedom and life? STANZA 2: My heart weeps tears of grief, and tears for those I love who are in overwhelming places. Some people get miracles, while others feel trapped. Where are the answers that bring healing freedom and life? The weight of it all is crushing in. We all want our miracle. STANZA 3: Some people get miracles, while others feel trapped. Where is your hope? It feels out of reach. The weight of it all is crushing in. We all want our miracle. God you are by my side.Next >