Psalm 43 explained: A Plea to Be Led Home

Asking for a fair hearing (vv. 1-2)

The writer uses courtroom language, asking God to take up his case against a hostile people who do not honor God and a lying, unjust man; who these enemies were is not known. He feels torn, calling God the source of his strength while feeling pushed away and left grieving under oppression.

Longing to return (vv. 3-4)

He pictures God's light and faithfulness as guides sent to walk him back to the holy hill, the temple mount in Jerusalem where God was believed to dwell. There he would go to the altar, the center of worship where offerings were made, and praise God on a stringed instrument.

Arguing with his own sadness (v. 5)

He questions his own low spirits, then tells himself to keep hoping, sure he will praise God again. This line repeats the refrain of Psalm 42 almost word for word, one reason many scholars think the two psalms were first a single poem.

Key verse: Psalm 43:5

Something to think about

Have you ever found yourself arguing with your own discouragement, and what did you say back to it?