Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord with all your heart, which contradicts the despair in Lamentations 3:18.
Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with Philippians 4:13
Speaks of strength through Christ, which contrasts the sense of lost strength and hope.
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Contradiction with Romans 15:13
Talks about joy and peace in believing, opposing the feeling of hopelessness.
Romans 15:13: Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Mentions being not in despair, contrary to the lament in Lamentations 3:18.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9: [We are] troubled on every side, yet not distressed; [we are] perplexed, but not in despair; [in despair: or, altogether without help, or, means]
Contradiction with Psalm 42:11
Encourages hope in God, contradicting the expression of lost hope.
Psalm 42:11: Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, [who is] the health of my countenance, and my God.
Paradox #1
Lamentations 3:18 expresses a feeling of losing hope and strength. This might seem to contradict the overall biblical message of hope and faith in God's goodness and promises. However, this verse reflects a moment of deep personal lament and doesn't represent the entire message of the Bible. It serves to showcase the human experience of despair before returning to faith and trust in God.
Paradox #2
Lamentations 3:18 expresses feelings of loss and despair. One could see a contradiction or conflict in that, despite faith and beliefs promising hope and redemption, the individual is overwhelmed by hopelessness and the absence of peace. This might seem inconsistent for believers who hold onto faith as a source of constant hope.