Although the people have sinned and God is chastening them severely, it is stated (Lamentations 3:31–33) that it would not last indefinitely. The reason or basis is to be found in God’s steadfast love: he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love.
The Hebrew word ḥesed denotes God’s unfailing, covenant love for his people. Although he has caused the grief, the people may take comfort in this great love he has bestowed and promised.1 This is covenantal language, which reaches back to the relationship he has instituted with his chosen people. His steadfast love will not be frustrated by their sin, and his purposes will work out according to his will. The abundance of their sin (see Lamentations 1:5) will be consumed by the even greater abundance of his steadfast love.2 The the steadfastness of God's love is the only legitimate basis upon which God’s covenant people are comforted.
32 but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love;