Definition: Arise, cry out in the night: in the beginning of the watches pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children, that faint for hunger in the top of every street.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Lamentations 2:19. It's a really powerful and poignant message about God’s love and concern for us. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying, “God wants to be close to you and your children, and he’s worried about them.” It expresses a deep longing and a plea for connection. Let's unpack it word by word: “Lamentations 2:19” : This refers to a specific time in the Old Testament story of the Israelites after they lost their way and were deeply saddened. “Arise, cry out in the night…” : This is the opening part – it’s a wake-up call. It means that God knows we're struggling, that we're feeling sad and hopeless. It's a reminder that He’s aware of our pain. “in the beginning of the watches… ” : "Watches" refers to the time when God is watching over us. It’s about His ongoing presence and protection. “…pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord…” : This is the really important part. “Pour out your heart” means to show your vulnerability, your true feelings, your tears. “Like water” suggests a gentle, flowing outpouring – not a forceful outburst, but a release of emotion. "Before the face of the Lord" refers to God's throne or presence – He’s looking down on us and recognizing our need for connection. “lift up thy hands toward him…” : This is a direct plea. It's asking us to turn towards God, to look to Him with humility and adoration. It’s a gesture of reaching out. “…for the life of thy young children…” : This emphasizes the core message – He wants to help our children thrive, to provide them with a safe and loving environment where they can grow strong. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse paints a picture of a deep longing for connection and protection. God isn't just passively observing; He’s actively yearning for us to be near Him, to share our burdens, and to seek His guidance. It’s a reminder that we aren’t alone in our struggles, and that He offers comfort and strength through His presence. Why is this verse important? It’s often seen as a timeless message of hope and reassurance. Even when things seem dark or difficult, it's a reminder that God is with us and cares deeply about our well-being – especially for those we love most: our children. It encourages us to seek His comfort and guidance in times of trouble. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Connect it to a specific story or theme in the Bible? Give you some practical ways to express your feelings of longing for God, based on this verse?