Losing and Finding God

Understanding Psalms 42–43

The Psalms, especially Psalms 42 and 43, provide deep insights into our hearts, feelings, and experiences, especially when we face doubts about our faith. It’s important to remember that feeling distant from God doesn’t always mean we’ve sinned. Not every tough situation or sad emotion is connected to doing something wrong.

1. Exile

Some people think you can feel close to God all the time, even when you’re all by yourself. But as C.S. Lewis pointed out in “The Four Loves,” to really know someone (especially God), you need to be part of a group. Going to church regularly and being part of a community are very important. If you only spend time with God by yourself and rarely go to church, or if you lose your close friends, you may start to feel distant from God.

2. Enemies

When we’re going through hard times, it’s easy to ask, “Where is God?” This question might come from people around us or from our own doubts, and it can get stronger when we’re feeling spiritually low. But even in tough times, it’s important to keep trusting that God has a good plan.

3. Employment

In our spiritual life, “employment” means both giving and receiving. Sometimes we might feel spiritually dry because we’re not getting enough guidance or help, or because we’re not giving enough to others. Like our bodies need a balance of food and exercise, our spiritual life needs a balance of receiving and giving.

4. Eating

The psalmist talks about feeling so sad that he can’t even eat. This shows that our physical and spiritual health are deeply connected. Sometimes physical problems can make us feel spiritually low. It’s important to understand this connection, so we can be kind and understanding to people who are struggling.

5. Enigma

Feeling like God is far away is a tough experience that tests our trust in God. But we can cope with this by finding joy in God, spending time with others in church, and reading and praying regularly. Even when God seems distant, we can trust that He is always faithful and ready to accept us.