Verse: As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. Psalm 42:1

Background: Psalm 42 is associated with the “Sons of Korah.” These were probably groups descended from the infamous family punished after the exodus (Numbers 26:9–11). Some commentators believe the Sons of Korah became influential worship leaders during the time of David and Solomon.

The psalm begins expressing a desperate longing for God. This famous comparison depicts an animal panting with thirst. The desire to know and commune with God is an urgent, vital need. 

7 Questions in Psalm 42

1. When shall I come and appear before God? Psalm 42:2  – The author asks the Lord
2. “Where is your God?” Psalm 42:3,10 Enemies asking Author
3. How I would go with the throng Psalm 42:4 Author asking the Lord
4. Why are you cast down, O my soul, Psalm 42:5,10 – The author asks himself
5. why are you in turmoil within me? Psalm 42:5, 10 The author asks himself
6. Why have you forgotten me? Psalm 42:9, The Author asks the Lord
7. Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” Psalm 42:9– The Author asks the Lord

Even faithful people can be tempted to despair. The writer turns to express a sense of overwhelming grief. This is compared to a brutal chain of oncoming waves or the relentless pounding of a waterfall. 

Emotional State of the Author

1. Pants: As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. Psalm 42:1
2. Thirsts: My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. Psalm 42:2
3. Tears: My tears have been my foodday and night, Psalm 42:3
4. Remember: These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: Psalm 42:4
5. Hope: Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. Psalm 42:11

Deep spiritual need crying out for an equally deep response. Enemy attacks tempt the psalmist to despair, but God is the solid Rock worthy of trust. Being mocked by unbelievers is painful but should not override our trust in God’s goodness. Instead, the psalmist looks to the future with hope