FEBRUARY 27
Psalm 42:5, “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”
Do you ever talk to yourself? What do you say? The psalmist asked his soul a question, then gave himself advice. His troubles were sourced in the deep sorrow he was experiencing. Sorrow is universal; even the most spiritual are not exempt, as seen throughout Scripture and church history. It comes to us in a variety of ways and for a host of reasons.
The Sons of Korah served as musicians in temple worship. Many believe this Psalm reflects their sorrow as they accompanied King David during his flight from Jerusalem due to his son Absalom’s rebellion (2 Samuel 15). As they left, they mourned their exile from their home (Psalm 42:5).
The Psalmist’s sorrow stems from several sources. He longs for God as a deer longs for water, but feels distant from Him (Psalm 42:1, 9). He is far from the temple, which once brought him joy (Psalm 42:4, 5b). Facing relentless trials, he feels overwhelmed by troubles and the mocking of his enemies, who ask, “Where is your God?” His tears have become his food, and he is broken-hearted.
Many can relate to the Psalmist’s feelings of despondency and sorrow. Have you ever felt so low that the only prayer is “help”? Yet, amidst this, the Psalmist speaks of hope. He talks to his soul, asking, “Why?” and directs his focus toward God. The repeated refrain, “Hope in God,” shifts his thoughts from despair to trust in God. As Charles Spurgeon has noted, “God is faithful, God is love, therefore there is room and reason for hope.”
The Psalmist reminds us that in times of sorrow, focusing on God’s unchanging nature and His promises offers hope. Despite life’s ups and downs, God remains our constant Rock. We do well to yearn even more for him, as a deer pants for flowing streams (Psalm 42:1), even as A. W. Tozer has prayed: “I am ashamed of my lack of desire. O God, the Triune God, I want to want Thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still.”
“If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within, you’ll be depressed. If you look at God you’ll be at rest.” — Corrie Ten Boom
Application Questions: What kind of things bring you sorrow? The psalmist’s sorrow had to do with losing access to temple worship. Do you yearn for a closer fellowship with God? Ask God to make you more thirsty for Him.
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