God’s Presence • Psalm 42:1-11
By Philip Price
Every morning the children of Israel gathered to worship. Yet, on this day, the early sunlight revealed an unholy mutiny had reached the point of no return. Moses and Aaron confidently stood at the entrance to the Tabernacle of God. Before them, Korah, a Levite, demanded he and the 250 Jewish Leaders standing with him be made equal to the divinely installed priests. These rebels defiantly held incense censers, symbolizing their arrogant desire to override God’s commands regarding the priesthood (Num. 16:16-20).
Then, Moses and Aaron — and the worshippers behind them — watched in horror as God punished the agitators. The earth opened its mouth and swallowed them and their households…The earth closed over them, and they vanished from the assembly (Num. 16:32,33 CSB).
Undeniably, God exercises His wrath on those who reject his mandates. Yet He remains a God of mercy and grace. For example, in the second census recorded in Numbers, it is noted that the sons of Korah did not die (Num. 26:11).
Encouragingly, despite a tragic family history, the sons of Korah were faithful to the Lord and active in leading worship. Psalm 42 is one of the eleven (11) psalms the sons of Korah are credited with writing. Consistently, these worship songs express humility and gratefulness to God. Perhaps, these themes are repeatedly in their writings due to God’s graciousness to them despite their father’s rebellion. When we study Psalm 42, we will learn that during trouble God is near (vv. 1-5), He loves us (vv. 6-8), and He is powerful (vv. 9-11).
Thirsting for God (Psalm 42:1–5)
The psalmist expressed a desire to be refreshed by God. Just like deer pant for a cool stream to refresh their parched throats, we should have an intense desire to spend time with the living God (vv. 1-2). At times, we are served a steady diet of tears, and we are mocked for our faith (v. 3). However, we should remember, as we pour out our hearts, the unforgettable times of worship we have experienced with fellow believers — times filled with joyful and thankful shouts (v. 4). Undoubtedly, the sons of Korah are referencing the annual pilgrimages the Jews made to the festivals in Jerusalem. For most pilgrims, the journey to Jerusalem would take many days. As they traveled, they would sing psalms in preparation for worship at the Temple. The psalmist remembered when he walked with many, and he was encouraged.
Next, he asked himself why he was feeling dejected (v. 5). He intently examined his soul and challenged himself to remain faithful. He refused to feel dejected and to live in turmoil. Likewise, we should guide our souls to hope in God and praise him, He is our Savior (v. 5).
Trusting in God (Psalm 42:6–8)
No one should be ashamed of admitting they are struggling emotionally. Possibly, due to feeling isolated, the psalmist disclosed he was deeply depressed. He mentioned geographical locations — Jordan, Hermon, Mount Mizar — that were great distances from the worship center in Jerusalem. Scholars believe the writer could have been living in these remote locations. But, no matter how far a person may feel from God, they can remember the Lord and trust that He is present (v. 6).
Then, we read deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls. When we are in deep despair, we can trust the depth of God’s faithfulness. The LORD matches waves of trouble with the billows of his care (v. 7). He sends his faithful love in the day and His song at night(v.8).
Triumphing with God (Psalm 42:9–11)
In the final three verses, the psalmist refers to God as my rock—a symbol of strength and security. Because of his confidence in the Lord, he continues to honestly divulge his feelings of loneliness, sorrow, and oppression (v. 9). He bemoaned being taunted by his adversaries, as they continuously asked, Where is your God? (v. 10). In the final verse, the psalmist questioned himself. He asked why he felt so dejected and why he was in such turmoil. Thankfully, he finds the answer. The closing charge to all is to put your hope in God. He declared, I will still praise him, my savior and my God (v. 11).
Questions to Ponder
How does your family history impact your relationship with God? Is there a time you felt far away from God? How can we take steps to recall God’s love for us during emotional distress?
Price is the Associational Missions Strategist for the Jackson County Baptist Association, Pascagoula. He is a member of Ridglea Heights Church, Moss Point.
