Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 42

This first psalm in Book 2 of Psalms details the experience of a person waiting on God for deliverance and restoration. We see hunger, taunts, tears, memories, despair, and faith as the psalmist reassures his soul of the LORD’s goodness.

1-4: Longing for God’s presence

5-8: Despair while waiting for God

9-11: Querying the soul’s distress again

In this psalm, the author speaks of his own soul as though of another entity, describing its longing, querying its despair, and encouraging it to wait for the LORD’s goodness. 

Because our emotions are automatic responses to our experiences, we often have to speak God’s Word to our souls to bring comfort and encouragement when in distress.

We may feel overwhelmed and distant from God, yet His faithfulness remains assured at all times. We do well to remind ourselves of that Scriptural truth. Amen.