The Psalmist asks the question “Why are you cast down [or Why do you sink in depression] O my soul?” He then asks a second question, “And why are you disquieted [or Why do you moan with such tumult and commotion] within me?” He then continues by giving a solution to both questions with the same answer, “Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance” [or face] Psalm 42:5. Some manuscripts say my countenance, and you can be assured that when you have a real vision of His countenance, it will lift up and help your countenance! So important is this truth that it is repeated in verse 11, and again in Psalm 43:5. Apparently these Psalms were written in a time of great trouble and distress in the Psalmists life, but we find him encouraging himself in God who is “our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble” psalm 46:1. The New Testament instructs us to “Be anxious for nothing…” Philippians 4:6-7. In Matthew 6:25 the same Greek word is translated “worry” indicating that we should not be preoccupied and distracted with that which causes stress, anxiety, and pressure. Philippians then continues by saying, “but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Psalm 3:3 says But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, My glory and the one who lifts up my head.” And Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…and He shall direct your paths.” Our hope is in God.
A reason for hope
By Rose Hill
Today are you looking down?
And on your face there is a frown?
If you think there is no hope,
And with these problems you can’t cope.
Don’t be looking to the ground,
And to the problems all around.
Great promises God has given,
Some day there will be abundant living.
Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright …1982 by Thomas Nelson Co. used by permission.