BIG IDEA:
CONTINUED HOPE IN GOD IS THE ONLY ANSWER FOR THE SOUL-SEARCHING
QUESTIONS OF THE ISOLATED BELIEVER (PART 1)
INTRODUCTION:
(must be read in conjunction with Psalm 43 as a unit)
I. (:1-4) QUESTION FROM THE SCOFFERS TO THE ISOLATED BELIEVER:
"WHERE IS YOUR GOD?"
Cut off from the worship of God at the temple in Jerusalem
and from the fellowship with the people of God
A. (:1-2) The Thirst of Isolation
cf. Solitary confinement; cf. Severe drought
"When shall I come and appear before God?" in the temple at Jerusalem
B. (:3) The Tears of Isolation
my situation is not very impressive
the contrast between my low estate and the majesty I claim for my God leads others to scoff and mock: "Where is Your God?"
C. (:4) The Tantalizing Memories of Former Fellowship and Worship Experiences
II. (:5-8) QUESTION FROM THE BELIEVER TO HIS OWN THIRSTY SOUL:
"WHY ARE YOU IN DESPAIR?"
Cut off from the enjoyment of the lovingkindness of the Lord;
overwhelmed with sorrow
Like a tennis match:
1) a powerful devastating serve that puts you in a difficult position
2) followed by a desperation return that just makes it over the net
A. (:5) Despair Countered by Hope -- Part 1
B. (:6) Despair Countered by Hope -- Part 2
C. (:7-8) Waves of Sorrow Countered by Lovingkindness and Joy
III. (:9) QUESTION FROM THE BELIEVER TO HIS GOD:
"WHY HAST THOU FORGOTTEN ME?"
Cut off from God’s answered prayer and deliverance from enemies.
REVIEW:
1) (:10) "WHERE IS YOUR GOD?"
2) (:11a) "WHY ARE YOU IN DESPAIR, O MY SOUL?"
3) "WHY HAST THOU FORGOTTEN ME?
ANSWER: (:11B)
"HOPE IN GOD, FOR I SHALL YET PRAISE HIM,
THE HELP OF MY COUNTENANCE, AND MY GOD."
* * * * * * * * * *
DEVOTIONAL QUESTIONS:
1) When we seem to have trouble finding God and are weighed down by our circumstances, do we have specific memories of past mountain-top spiritual experiences that give our heart courage and hope?
2) Have we tried to actively praise God out loud even though our emotions are crying out in the opposite direction? Have we experienced that phenomena of our emotions catching up to our actions? Do we see hoping in God as an active commitment of our will?
3) Do we expect God to ultimately act on our behalf (vs. 11) and quiet the taunts and mocking of our enemies?
4) Have we learned the secret of looking away from our problems and up to our God who remains our Rock and one who pours out His steadfast love upon us daily?
Download the entire Psalms commentary in pdf format
(including notes on each psalm from other commentators)
from:
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