These two Psalms (42-43) begins the second book of the Psalms (42-72), which are characterized by the predominant use of Elohim instead of Yahweh. In Book 1 the ratio was 272 Yahweh to 15 Elohim, while in Book 2 the ratio is 164 Elohim to 30 Yahweh. These two psalms appear to have originally been united.
Part 1: a longing to be in God's presence in light of drought—42:1-5 He has an intense longing for God in the face of prevalent drought—42:1-2 1) A comparison—1 As the deer longs [arag] for flowing waters, in this way my soul longs [arag] for You, O God. 2) Clearly stated—2 My soul thirsts [tsame] for God, for the living God. 3) Expressed in a question—When will I come and appear before God? 4) "His 'deer-like' thirst expresses not a worshiper's love for God (as we often think of the phrase) but the agonizing, terrifying thirst of an animal wasting away in a time of drought. The psalmist is beside himself with grief. He is oppressed." (Chris Anderson, Gospel Meditations for the Hurting, # 25)
He remembers past experiences in God's presence—42:4 ("good old days") • Adverse conditions in life are an optimal context for reflecting on God.
He regards his grief and struggle with doubt—42:5 (cf. 42:11; 43:5) 1) He questions his soul with two questions 2) He commands his soul
Take-home truth: Talk (don't just listen) to yourself in a Godward manner.
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By God's amazing grace alone, Phil was drawn to salvation in Jesus Christ as a college freshman. He began his pastoral ministry as an assistant pastor (working specifically with youth and music) in 1983 while in seminary. He became the senior pastor here at Calvary in December...
