The author remembers and acknowledges his suffering and bitterness (wormwood and gall). He knows he is afflicted in this way because of his grievous sin and the sin of all his people. His soul is weighed down with sorrow. His back is bent from his burden. But despite all this, he still calls to mind the steadfast love of the Lord. His love and mercy to his people never ends. Therefore, he has hope. When we remember the steadfast love of the Lord, we too have hope to overcome all hardships. The author knows that suffering is not his portion. His portion is the Lord. So let us seek the Lord and quietly wait on him.

That the Lord loves steadfastly does not mean he will not punish sin. He does, and he does so severely! But he does not stay angry forever. He causes grief, but he also has great compassion. He punishes in his love for us, in hope that we will repent and turn back to him. God’s love is steadfast for those who repent and seek him.
Application: Father, even though we are sinners, you love us with a love no one can ever match. Bless us to reside in the steadfast love of the Lord all our days.
One Word: The love of the Lord never ceases