A Jot From John
In these two little Psalms, which are plainly one, we see the conflicting emotions of gloom and sunshine, which comes to a close with sunshine in triumph.
I. GLOOM. (42:1-5)
1. The soul athirst. (Verses 1,2.)
2. The soul in sorrow. (Verse 3a.)
3. The source of this sorrow. (Verses 3b, 4.)
(a) Persecution
(b) Separation
(c) Memory of better days.
4. The hopeful refrain. (Verse 5.)
II. GLOOM AND SUNSHINE IN CONFLICT (VERSES 6-11.)
1. The soul depressed—a relapse from the hopeful refrain.
(a) The soul cast down. (Verse 6.)
(b) The soul submerged. (Verse 7.)
2. The soul’s joyful expectation. (8.)
3. The soul forsaken. (Verses 9-10.)
4. The hopeful refrain. (Verse 11.)
III. SUNSHINE IN TRIUMPH (43: 1-5.)
1. The prayer preceding. (Verses 1-3.) [In this we see another relapse from the hopeful refrain.]
(a) For deliverance.
(b) For light and truth.
2. The happy assurance that God would hear him. (Verse 4.)
3. The hopeful refrain. (Verse 5.) From this there is no relapse.
Eternal God, as rivers seek their freedom in the sea, as showers turn their faces to the sun the whole day long, so our hearts turn to thee in adoration. Breathe upon us thy infinite love, that in its warmth our minds may be open to beauty, to wisdom, and to a clearer vision of thy truth. Father, brood over our souls, that our thoughts, our deeds, our very lives may move in kindness and loving obedience to the will of our Savior. Make this day holy with thy blessed presence, and happy in the fellowship of the truth which makes men free. (In Jesus name we pray, Amen)
Onward Rejoicing, John B. Daniels, Associate Minister
