Psalm 43

Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man. For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy? (v 2)

Circumstances and the actions of men have conspired to prevent this psalmist from enjoying his relationship with the Lord. He is being oppressed by his enemies, there seems to be no justice for him, but most painful of all, it feels like God has deserted him. But his feelings do not lead to him turn his back on God. As much as he wants justice and vindication, the psalmist's desire is that he might find his way back into God's presence - for God is his joy.

O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God. (v 3)

Your current experience may lend itself to the belief that God has abandoned you. Let the writer's words speak to you here. When darkness surrounds, let the light of his word lead you right back to His presence. Unlike the Old Testament times, you don't have to wait until you attend a church service to experience the loving touch of God. You don't have to offer sacrifices of bulls and goats, for God to accept you into His presence. Christ has given us access to boldly come before God's throne to obtain the help we need (Hebrews 4:16).

Delve into His word, and commune with the Holy Spirit who resides in you. Encourage yourself with songs of worship. Keep company with other believers who can testify of God's goodness, and remember that He is no respecter of persons. He will keep His promises to you. Remember,

...the joy of the Lord is your strength! (Nehemiah 8:10)

"The better we understand God's word, the more comfort we find in it; the darkness of trouble arises from the darkness of ignorance."- Matthew Henry

Psalm 43 Full Reading