1. A man who has seen affliction (1-9)

After two chapters of communal laments, the laments in chapter 3 are personal. The author speaks of his own affliction. God has driven him away and he walks and dwells in darkness. Everywhere he turns, he sees and experiences bitterness and hardship. God is against him and does not answer his prayers. He suffers physically, emotionally and spiritually. The author feels that there is no escape from his suffering.

2. My splendor is gone (10-18)

Though the author once enjoyed peace and prosperity, God has now dragged him from that path. He has been mangled. He feels he is without help. His heart is pierced by God's arrows. He has become a laughingstock, mocked all day long. The author laments that God has trampled him in the dust. His pain and grief are so acute that he no longer remembers his former days of blessing. We feel the same when God removes his blessing from our lives. But when we repent and receive forgiveness in Christ, God restores his blessing.