God Still Provides Encouragement - Cornerstone Community Church

Psalm 42 and 43

These two Psalms are interconnected, written by the Sons of Korah.
Despite their ancestor’s rebellion against Moses, God uses them.
Reminding us that regardless of our past, God can use us.

Psalm 42

Verse 1 & 2:

The picture of a deer panting for water is not a pretty one.
Thirst leads to dehydration, energy loss, and hallucinations.
The analogy highlights desperation and the need for God’s refreshing.

Verse 3:

The Psalmist expresses deep discouragement, crying until there are no tears left.
Feeling as if God is absent and circumstances mock their faith.

Verse 4:

Longing for better times, recalling how life used to be.
Desiring to be in the presence of God’s people to find refreshment.

Verse 5 & 6:

Acknowledging the weight on one’s heart and the struggle with discouragement.
The importance of refocusing on God’s faithfulness, even when feeling discouraged.

Verse 7:

Feeling like drowning and calling out from the depths of suffering.

Verse 8, 9, 10:

The emotional rollercoaster of struggling with discouragement.
The Psalmist knows God’s love is unfailing despite his circumstances.

Verse 11:

Repeating the need to keep hope alive despite the ongoing battle.

Psalm 43

Verses 1 & 2:

Knowing God is a safe haven and a rescuer.
Feeling abandoned and forgotten during difficult times.

Psalm 43:3 & 4:

Longing for God’s guidance and salvation while in darkness.
Desiring to be in God’s presence to exchange heaviness for joy.

Psalm 43:5:

Reiterating the need to keep pointing towards hope and victory.

A Fight Plan for Discouragement

Freely Express Yourself to God:
- Be brutally honest about your feelings.
- God isn’t afraid of your pain or doubt.
- Pour out your worries and stress upon Him.
Incline Your Ear to His Voice:
- Seek God’s voice even in despair.
- Even in darkness, His promises are profound.
- Jesus invites those heavy-laden to find rest in Him.
Give Yourself a Good Talking To:
- Challenge your negative self-talk.
- Preach God’s promises to yourself.
- Proclaim God’s faithfulness and protection.
Hang Around the Right People:
- Sometimes we need others to lift us out of despair.
- Find people who can remind you of God’s promises.
- Share your burdens with those who won’t allow you to wallow.
Transfuse the Atmosphere with Praise:
- Praise chases away the spirit of heaviness.
- Even when it’s difficult, declare God’s goodness.
- Rejoice in the Lord and experience His joy and strength.

Psalm 42 and 43 provide us with a powerful story of healing and transformation. Encouragement from God can help us find hope by repeating expressions of joy. You should rejoice in the Lord always, no matter your circumstances. God still provides encouragement through honesty, listening, self-talk, community, and praise.

Fight for hope, and let joy become your strength.

Thank you for viewing today’s message. Please consider this message a call to put up a fight against discouragement. Please check out any of our other sermons for more thought-provoking discussions on the encouragement God can provide us in our lives.