The writer encourages the people to cry out to God. He alone can give salvation in times of need. They are exhorted to do this without ceasing. Therefore, this cry must be made amidst abundant tears, while their eyes may rest neither day nor night. Like an ever-flowing stream, the tears must continue to flow.1 At this stage of the poem, it is not certain whether the tears and summons to cry to God is out of true repentance that would be due to an acknowledgement of guilt. It could simply be because of their intense suffering, without any true contrition.2
18 Their heart cried to the Lord. O wall of the daughter of Zion, let tears stream down like a torrent day and night! Give yourself no rest, your eyes no respite!