On Sunday I had a relaxed morning; didn’t quite make it to join my church family for worship so I did my own thing… I went for a walk in the park, listened to some music, and spent time in Psalm 42.
Truth is, I haven’t been feeding myself like I should be; haven’t been in the Word like I know I should & want to be. This is my attempt at starting over! I thought I’d share some of my reflections on the passage. Feel free to jump in and comment too!
My tears have been my food day and night, (v.3)
This got me thinking… is the Psalmist making a statement, or is there something more profound going on here? Are the tears actually sustaining and nourishing him through this? What would it look like if that was true, if they somehow actually feed me, sustained me?
Why are you cast down, O my soul…
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, (v. 5)
Hope is a CHOICE. Such confidence that God will come through.
My soul is cast down within me;
therefore I remember you (v. 6)
The remedy is to REMEMBER. When the darkness seems to overwhelm, remember all the times that have come before and how God has pulled through for me. I actually started writing a list; I needed to start thinking through it all so that I could remember… specific friendships, repeated financial provision, a holiday, a good cup of coffee, Foys gig in Belfast (don’t let the spirit die Lord)… the list could go on forever!
By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,
and at night his song is with me, (v.8 )
His love never leaves me. He is faithful to the end. What does it mean for his song to be with me?
Can you hear his song? Can you hear the refrain?
Remember, and hope.
Really like this. Sounds like a really good way to engage with God and the Bible.
@ Matt: i find it helpful for sure, to ask questions. i find if i dont interact with it somehow, if i simply read, i often don’t really take it in.
Love your thoughts here Emma. I’ve known times when tears sustained me. I went through a season of black depression when all I felt was NUMB. Therefore when God started to breakthrough, even though I ‘felt’ so alone, I knew his affection for me. The tears were a welcome release (I honestly thought I would never cry again)
P.S. loving Foy Vance too – seeing him again 3rd May
@ Nichola: Thanks for sharing your thoughts, it’s always good to hear each others stories. I’m looking forward to a little Foy this week I must confess!