Psalm 42

1. Verse 1 is the basis for one of the more famous “camp songs” of the past few years. The verse beautifully illustrates how deep our desire should be for our Lord. When thirsty, we will do nearly anything to find water. Are we that focused on serving God?

2. “My tears have been my food day and night, while they say to me all day long, ‘Where is your God?'” (verse 3) Of all the statements of loneliness and distress in the Psalms, this one stands out to me. We have all cried ourselves to sleep and wondered if we were the only ones who cared. It’s sad that we have those experiences, but it’s good to know that we aren’t alone in them.

3. In verse 5, the writer (the sons of Korah) seems to be questioning his attitude. He knows that God is there, and worthy of praise, but he is still in despair. Again, it is good for us to know that others have similar attitudes and thoughts as do we from time-to-time.

4. Verse 6 is the answer for the poet. He simply cries out to God and lets Him know (as if God didn’t already know) of the despair being felt. While God knows always how we feel, we still need to be willing to speak to Him about our despair–and our triumphs!

5. Verse 7 is proof that the writer understand that God is not responsible for his suffering, but that God did set the things in motion that led to this suffering. It is not an indictment against God, rather, a call for God to act, since He is in charge.

6. Verse 9 is interesting to me. The inspired poet calls God “my Rock,” but then admits to having major questions. However, he knows to ask those questions of God. After all, He is an honest and trustworthy Rock.

7. In the final verse (11), the writer seems to be trying to psyche himself up. As we often do, he needs to trust in God, so he simply tells himself to do so! God has always helped us, so we should be willing to praise Him, even in times of doubt or despair.