Looking at God in Suffering (Ps 42)

In Book 1 of the Psalms (1-41), we observed a prominent theme: True happiness is found by living under the reign of God. To choose our own reign and authority is to revert to the folly of Adam and Eve, leading us away from human flourishing. The wonderful news of the gospel, is that living God's reign in Christ we can experience true human flourishing and joy. This joy is nutured by meditating on his Word (Ps 1) or receiving forgiveness in our confession (Ps 32). But what happens when we don't feel joy? What do we do when life is hard?

In Book 2, true happiness is threatened. The author cries out: "Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?" (5, 11) He describes his life circumstances with staggering imagery: "My tears have been my food day and night..." It appears as though the King is not on the throne, that somehow true joy eludes his people in suffering. What are we to make of the King? What are we to do with our suffering in life? 

QUESTIONS FOR PSALM 42

As you read through this psalm this week, ask it several questions:

• How does the sufferer answer his questions about his cast down soul and the absence of God in suffering?
• What does he remember that gives him perspective in suffering?
• What posture does he take as he suffers?

QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION

• Based on the sufferer's response, how might you need to adjust your response to God in suffering?
• What counsel can you give to other Christians who suffer?
• How can you respond to the accusation that God is not good because he allows us to suffer?