Reading the Word

Psalm 43:1–5 (ESV)

1 Vindicate me, O God, and defend my cause
against an ungodly people,
from the deceitful and unjust man
deliver me!
2 For you are the God in whom I take refuge;
why have you rejected me?
Why do I go about mourning
because of the oppression of the enemy?

3 Send out your light and your truth;
let them lead me;
let them bring me to your holy hill
and to your dwelling!
4 Then I will go to the altar of God,
to God my exceeding joy,
and I will praise you with the lyre,
O God, my God.

5 Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God.

Understanding and Applying the Word

In this psalm, the writer is in distress. There is mention of unjust treatment, deceit, and oppression. This has resulted in the psalmist feeling rejected and being in a state of mourning. The writer calls out for God to grant deliverance, so he can go to the altar and worship.

The last verse is the one we need to focus on. The psalmist asks, “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?” When we trust in God, we have no reason to feel defeated or hopeless. We are assured that he will save us for himself. We will be with him because Christ has already defeated our enemies on our behalf. We will praise him again.

Whatever your circumstances, fellow believer, know that you belong to God and he will fulfill his promises to you. He will save you and you will praise him for his glory, love, and grace. One day, we will all stand before his throne and lift our voices in praise together because he is our salvation.

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