The feelings of hopelessness can be debilitating and devastating. David’s hope was being challenged with feelings of being misunderstood (Ps. 43:1) and sometimes even feelings of being forsaken (Ps. 43:2). He wondered why he had to endure so much uncertainty and why he had to endure it for so long. He longed to experience the presence of God.
Read the story Psalm 42:1-11 & Psalm 43:1-5
Psalm 43 is believed to be a continuation of Psalm 42. In Psalm 42 David expresses a driving hunger for the presence of God (42:1 & 2). And he reminisces about times of joy and festivity in the house of God. In 42:9 & 10 he expresses bewilderment about why he feels abandoned and why there seems to be no end to his enemies’ oppression.
In the midst of these dark circumstances and feelings, David asks God to send His Light of truth to shine into his darkness so that it would guide him back into intimacy and fellowship with God (43:3). He recognized that in the Light of God’s presence there is always hope and that God’s light dispels depression and fear (43:5). In the midst of being downcast and discouraged, David focused on the light of hope instead of focusing on the darkness of his circumstance. He determined that in spite of the darkness, he would praise his Savior and God (43:5)
Activity:
Say a prayer asking the Lord to shine His light into your darkness and then make a deliberate choice to praise and worship God no matter how you may feel. His light will dispel depression and fear and give you hope.