Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance. Psalm 42:5 KJV
The Psalmist talks to himself questioning his inner discouragement and trouble. Most of us have been there, at least, I know I have. Sometimes it is due to sin to be confessed, sometimes it is due to situations beyond our control, but discouragement touches most of us. Finding out the cause of the discouragement is part of the solution, but moving beyond why to a positive response is necessary to overcome it. The Psalmist used hope to remove his sorrow. No matter how low we may get there is always hope because of our God. Notice the help, which lifted the countenance of the Psalmist, was the countenance of God. Seeking His face in our troubles will enable us to praise Him in the lowest of times.
Lord, too often I seem troubled by a disquieted soul. It is easy to be overcome by it, yet the answer is always beyond it. Help me take my eyes off the sorrows of my heart and lift them to You that my countenance can be change by Your shining countenance.
