Introduction
One of the distinctive features of the Christian faith is the personal relationship with God we enjoy. Mystics might talk about a 'connection' with nature, or followers of other religions might see or pray to their gods from time to time, but we are granted a real and intense 'person to person' relationship with our God.
Book 2 of Psalms gives us many beautiful songs that express this relationship. They are the words of David and other psalmists, but they can be our words too. Moreover, they all in their own way compel us to think over the gospel of Christ and the spiritual blessings we enjoy in him.
These notes are designed to help you meditate over God's Word and genuinely spend time with him, 'the living God' (42:2). You can use them for yourself, or with others such as your friends, spouse and family. The prayer suggestions are generic. Think of something you can thank God for from each Psalm, ask for help with something you’ve been challenged by. Each day we pray for one of our Mission Partners. If you’re looking for content for prayer for those Mission Partners pick up a copy of the current Growth Group booklet.
Here's a prayer, inspired by Psalm 56 you might like to use to begin before reading
Father, you are my God, whose word I praise. You are my God in whom I trust. What can people do to me? I thank you that you have delivered me from death by the blood of Jesus. Please help me to walk before you in the light of life. Let your Spirit work in me to grow my knowledge and obedience as I read your word. Amen
Day 1: Psalm 42 – Oppressed by the enemy
This psalm is a very personal response & prayer.
Have a look back through the psalm. What does the psalmist's relationship with God look like? (Tip: look at the language used)
“'Where is your God?', men say and foes taunt.” What is the psalmist's reaction to being oppressed because of this relationship?
Psalm 42 seems to be a prayer written by the Sons of Korah describing the personal struggle of an individual trusting God in this hostile world. There is a recurring refrain (v5 & 11) in the psalm that emphasises the comfort of the individual in God our Saviour. In the same way, how can you take comfort in what the psalmist says in light of knowing who Jesus is?
Prayer points:
1. Thank God for one thing from the passage
2. Ask God for help with one thing you've been challenged by from your reading and reflection today
3. Linda McKerrell.