The Soul’s Dark Night

Psalm 42-43

Introduction

–         Depression is a major concern in contemporary North American society that affects both Christians and non-Christians

–         Psalm 42-43 (originally one Psalm) is an emotionally loaded ‘Psalm of Lament’ written by a person who feels totally abandoned by God

Downward Steps into Darkness

1)     Isolation from God (42:1-2)

• The Psalmist feels totally forsaken by God (42:9; 43:2)
• His experience of worship is interrupted (42:2)
• He feels like a drowning man (42:7)

2)     Isolation from people (42:4)

• The Psalmist is unable to go to the Temple

1. Sickness?
2. Exile?

3)     Spiritual Oppression

• “Where is your God?” (42:3, 9-10; 43:2)

Upward Steps into Light

1)     Longing for God (42:1)

2)     Remembering God (42:6)

3)     Hoping in God (42:5, 11; 43:5)

4)     Praising God

• Private praise (42:8)
• Corporate worship (43:3-4)

5)     Praying to God (43:1, 3)