Reflecting on the Psalms

Psalm 42-43
The Psalms are not just beautiful poetry that reflect the ups and down of life. They also point to where the central focus of our lives ought to be, the worship of the one true God. It is interesting that even after centuries
have passed and we live in a different time and culture, the Psalms express our innermost feelings, fears and hopes. Athanasius, a major church leader in he fourth century, declared “that the Psalms have a unique place in the Bible because most of the Scripture speaks to us, while the Psalms speak for us.”

One of the fears that appears prevalent in New Zealand is loneliness. The words of David in Psalm 42 and 43 expresses this clearly.

Christians are not immune to loneliness. When we are alone, the worst and saddest things can come to mind. We may reflect in detail upon all sorts of evils, or adversities in our lives, past or present. They can present themselves in such a way in our minds that we dwell on, or even magnify them. In short, when we are alone, we think of one thing and another, we leap to conclusions and we often interpret everything in the worst light. On the other hand, we imagine that other people are very happy and perhaps that also distresses us. God created people for society and not for solitude. Not that solitude is a bad thing. Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and Scripture tells us why – to pray. He withdrew to commune with his Father, to speak with him, just as we are to do.

Temptation often occurs when we are along spiritually. The Psalmist encourages us to do two things: the speak the Word to ourselves instead of allowing our minds to wander into despair (talk to ourselves, instead of allowing “ourselves” to talk to us) and to remind ourselves of God and His love for us.

Pastor Darryl