Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
November 20, 2022
Read Psalm 42:1-11
1 Just like a deer that craves streams of water, my whole being craves you, God. 2 My whole being thirsts for God, for the living God. When will I come and see God’s face? 3 My tears have been my food both day and night, as people constantly questioned me, “Where’s your God now?” 4 But I remember these things as I bare my soul: how I made my way to the mighty one’s abode, to God’s own house, with joyous shouts and thanksgiving songs a huge crowd celebrating the festival! 5 Why, I ask myself, are you so depressed? Why are you so upset inside? Hope in God! Because I will again give him thanks, my saving presence and my God. 6 My whole being is depressed. That’s why I remember you from the land of Jordan and Hermon, from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep called to deep at the noise of your waterfalls; all your massive waves surged over me. 8 By day the LORD commands his faithful love; by night his song is with me a prayer to the God of my life. 9 I will say to God, my solid rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why do I have to walk around, sad, oppressed by enemies?” 10 With my bones crushed, my foes make fun of me, constantly questioning me: “Where’s your God now?” 11 Why, I ask myself, are you so depressed? Why are you so upset inside? Hope in God! Because I will again give him thanks, my saving presence, and my God.
Good Morning, This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it!
This is a lament Psalm written by the sons of Korah who are descendants of a Levite priest. When I read of sadness and depression, I search for the context of writing. I want to know what has caused this depression. In my research, I learned that this group had previously been in a close relationship with God, but they now feel separated and alone. They describe their desire to reestablish this closeness to God.
From their words, we see that they believe, but they are overwhelmed by their current situation. Most of us have felt this way at times. Sometimes one simple thing can trigger these feelings of sadness and separation. As we sit and mope, we suddenly realize that we are depressed, and don’t know what to do. As the sons of Korah shared we must remember our hope in God. The promise of a new life can lead us through our dark days.
I am challenged by reading the Psalms of lament, but these writings can help us prepare for the dark days that we each face. God does not promise that we will live easy lives that are devoid of challenges. However, God does promise to be with us always. Just as the Psalmists are saying, we must work to maintain our relationship with God. When we share our most vulnerable thoughts, God will hold us so that we can find strength in the one who loves us unconditionally.
Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ Isaiah 41:10
Gracious God, Thank You for loving us. We love You. Help us share ourselves with you. Through sharing we find strength. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: When I feel discouraged, I will go to God.
Share with God! Pastor Liz
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