Hope In God

Bible Verse

“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, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”

Psalm 42:11 (KJV)

My Story

Sarah Elizabeth and I both co-taught a class of two-year-olds in the seminary’s early childhood learning center. We weren’t just coworkers, we were friends. She and my wife attended aerobics together and became friends as well.

She who loved spending time in nature. Before seminary, she would often go on hikes and spend hours exploring the forests near her home back in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She found that being in nature helped her connect with God and find peace in her heart.

She shared with me that one day, while hiking in the mountains, she came across a rushing river. As she stood on the bank and watched the water flow by, she felt a sense of awe and wonder at the power and beauty of nature. She followed the river upstream, curious to see where it would lead.

As she walked along the bank, she came across a section where the water looked smooth as a glass window. She could see the rocks and pebbles at the bottom of the riverbed, and she noticed something shiny caught in between the rocks. She reached in and pulled out a small, smooth stone that sparkled in the sunlight.

Sarah Elizabeth held the stone in her hand and felt a sense of joy and gratitude. She felt as if God had given her a gift, a small reminder of His love and presence in her life. She thought of the words of Psalm 42:11: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

Sarah Elizabeth viewed the stone as a symbol of hope and faith. 

Just as the stone hid among the rocks in the riverbed, sometimes hope and faith can hide during our struggles and challenges.

She found the stone and held onto it as a symbol of her faith.

As Sarah Elizabeth continued on her hike. She thought about how Psalm 42:11 applied to life. Living through a difficult time, feeling overwhelmed with college and her part-time job, she struggled to find balance in her life. But holding onto the stone reminded her that even during her struggles, God was with her and would help her through.

She felt peace knowing she could put her hope in God. She trusted He would guide her through challenges.

Sarah Elizabeth praised God for her renewed faith.

In her heart, she knew He would never leave her or forsake her.

As Sarah Elizabeth reached the end of her hike and returned home, she kept the stone with her as a reminder of the lesson she had learned. She knew that life would have its difficulties, but she also knew that she could put her hope in God and trust that He would never fail her.

She took the small stone from her purse and showed it to me. I carry it with me as a reminder of God’s abiding presence.

“When I’m feeling down or blue, I hold it in my hand as a reminder to keep my hope in God.” And with that knowledge, she said she felt a sense of joy and hope that filled her heart, just like the glittering stone filled her hand.

Who wrote Psalm 42:11 and when was it written?

The psalmist of the Sons of Korah wrote Psalm 42:11. The Sons of Korah were a group of Levitical singers who led worship in the Temple of Jerusalem during the time of King David and King Solomon.

Scholars are uncertain about the exact date of the writing of Psalm 42:11. People believe ancient Israelites compiled and edited the psalms over a period of several centuries, with some dating back to the time of Moses and others written during the Babylonian exile in the 6th century BC. Scholars classify Psalm 42 as one of the “psalms of lament,” which express feelings of sadness and distress, and they have suggested that they wrote it during a time of national crisis or personal struggle.

What is the meaning of Psalm 42:11?

Psalm 42:11 is a verse from the Book of Psalms, which is a collection of sacred songs and prayers that form part of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. The verse reads:

“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”

We often interpret this verse as a call to trust in God even in difficult times, and to find comfort and hope, knowing that God will provide salvation. The speaker of the psalm is expressing feelings of sadness and turmoil, but also acknowledges that they will once again find joy in praising God. The verse is a reminder to believers that even in the darkest of times, they can turn to God for comfort and hope.

What does “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God:” mean?

Psalm 42:11 is part of a psalm attributed to the sons of Korah, and it expresses a longing for God’s presence. It declares the hopeless encountered without God’s presence.

The line “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me?” is a rhetorical question the psalmist asks himself to express his inner turmoil and sadness. He is asking himself why he is feeling so down and restless within his own soul.

We can interpret this line as the psalmist’s struggles with doubt and despair, which are common themes throughout the book of Psalms. We can also see it as a reminder to turn to God for comfort and strength, as the psalmist does later in the verse by encouraging himself to place his hope in God.

Overall, the line conveys a sense of emotional turmoil and a longing for spiritual comfort and reassurance. It serves as a reminder that even in times of difficulty, we can turn to God for guidance and support.

What does “for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” mean?

Psalm 42:11 is a verse from a psalm of lament, where the psalmist expresses his deep longing for God during his distress. The verse reads:

“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”

In this verse, the psalmist is reminding himself to hope in God and trust in His goodness, despite his current struggles. The phrase “the health of my countenance” refers to God as the source of the psalmist’s well-being and vitality. By praising God, the psalmist affirms his faith that God can restore his joy and peace, even in difficult times.

Overall, this verse expresses the psalmist’s confidence in God’s power to bring him through his troubles and restore him to a place of wholeness and happiness.

What is the difference in biblical translations of Psalm 42:11 (KJV, NIV & ESV)

  • Psalm 42:11 KJV biblical translation says:

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, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

Psalm 42:11 KJV
  • Psalm 42:11 NIV biblical translation says:

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

Psalm 42:11 NIV
  • Psalm 42:11 ESV biblical translation says:

Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.

Psalm 42:11 ESV

How does Psalm 42:11 give encouragement?

Psalm 42:11 says, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

This verse provides encouragement by reminding the reader to trust in God and to put their hope in Him, even in difficult times discouraged and blue. The psalmist is acknowledging their feelings of sadness and discouragement, but they are also reminding themselves and the reader that God is their Savior and their source of hope.

The phrase “for I will yet praise him” suggests that the psalmist is hopeful that their situation will improve, and that they will have reason to praise God again in the future. This can be encouraging to readers who are going through difficult times, as it reminds them that their current situation is not permanent and that they too can have hope for a better future.

Overall, Psalm 42:11 encourages readers to turn to God and to trust in Him, even in times of trouble, and to have hope for a better future.

How can I apply Psalm 42:11 to my life?

This verse encourages us to take our focus off of our troubles and instead put our hope in God. When we feel downcast or disturbed, we can choose to turn to God and trust in His goodness and faithfulness.

To apply this verse to your life, you can start by reflecting on any areas where you might be feeling downcast or disturbed. Maybe you are struggling with a difficult situation at work or in your personal life. Perhaps you are dealing with feelings of anxiety or uncertainty about the future.

Whatever the situation may be, take some time to pause and turn your attention to God. Pray for His guidance, wisdom, and peace. Trust that He is in control and that He has a plan for your life, even if you can’t see it right now.

As you shift your focus from your problems to God, you can experience a sense of hope and peace that transcends your circumstances. You can also find comfort in knowing that you have a Savior who loves you and is with you every step of the way.

A model or example prayer using Psalm 42:11

Here is a model or example of prayer using Psalm 42:11:

Dear God,

As I come to you today, I feel downcast and disturbed, just like the psalmist in Psalm 42. Yet I know you are my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, and that you are always with me, even during my troubles. So I lift my eyes to you and say,

Why is my soul, are you downcast? Why am I so disturbed? I put my hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.

Help me, Lord, to put my hope in you and to trust in your goodness and faithfulness, even when my feelings and circumstances pull me down. Fill me with your peace and joy, and remind me of your promises and your love. Help me to praise you in the midst of my trials, knowing that you are with me and that you will never leave me or forsake me.

Thank you, Lord, for your grace and your mercy, and for the hope that you give me through your Son, Jesus Christ. May we praise forever your name, and may my life be a testimony to your greatness and your goodness.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen.

Conclusion:

Having a case of the blues or being down is normal. 

It is at those times we need to turn to God.

If the blues or depression continues to be an issue, seek medical help as depression could be a cause.

Remember, there is hope, and your hope is in God.


Today’s article is from the forthcoming book: “Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship | The Bible Speaks to Life Issues, Book Three” by Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Ed.D. from Poetry and Prayer Press (c) 2023

How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.

Our Hope is In God

Bible Verse:

“Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.”

Psalm 33:22 (KJV)

My Story:

At twenty-three years old, I became a Christian. Since then, I have believed in the power of prayer and know that God is always listening. However, in my early forties, as I faced one challenge after another, I felt overwhelmed and discouraged. My career was struggling, and after a career change, I was struggling to make ends meet. I was losing hope, and for the only time in my life, felt like giving up.

One day, as I was reading the Bible, I came across Psalm 33:22, which says, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” Something about those words spoke to my soul. I realized I my focus was on my problems that I had forgotten to put my hope in God. The words echoed in my head over and over that day “Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” I needed to put my hope in the Lord.

From that day on, I prayed, trusting in God’s plan for my life. I saw small blessings.

One example is a gift of money to pay my mortgage payment on time. 

Another is a veterans benefit. It allowed me to retrain for a high paying information technology job. I realized God was with me every step of the way.

As I continued to put my hope in the Lord, I experienced a newfound sense of joy and peace. I no longer felt overwhelmed by my circumstances because I knew God was in control. I looked for opportunities to help others and spread love and kindness wherever I went.

In the end, I turned my hobby into my career. I earned more money than I ever dreamed of, and I stayed current on my debts, provided financial stability for my wife and children. 

My hope and faith in the Lord would carry me through any challenge that lay ahead.

Who wrote Psalm 33:22 and when was it written?

We do not attribute the authorship of this psalm to any specific individual. Many believe that King David wrote it, as we give him credit for writing many of the psalms.

Nobody knows the exact date when somebody wrote Psalm 33, as the Book of Psalms contains prayers and songs collected over a period of centuries. Scholars believe the psalm’s writing occurred during the time of the Kingdom of Israel, which was ruled by King David and his successors from around 1000 BC to 586 BC.

What is the context of Psalm 33:22?

Psalm 33 is a psalm of praise and thanksgiving to God for his power, sovereignty, and faithfulness. The psalm begins with an exhortation to sing joyfully to the Lord and play skillfully on musical instruments, acknowledging that the word of the Lord is right and true, and that all his works were done in faithfulness.

Psalm 33:22 is the concluding verse of the psalm and it reads: “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” This verse is a prayer of trust and dependence on God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, asking for his ongoing presence and protection. It is a reminder that despite the challenges and uncertainties of life, we can rely on God’s unwavering love and place our hope in him.

What is the meaning of Psalm 33:22?

Psalm 33:22 says, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” This verse is a prayer for God’s continued presence and love in the lives of those who trust in Him.

The verse begins with the phrase, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord.” “Unfailing” emphasizes God’s love is constant and dependable. Here the psalmist is asking for God’s love to be present with them always, showing a desire for a close and personal relationship with God.

“Even as we put our hope in you,” the second part says. This phrase recognizes that the psalmist’s hope is in God alone. They trust God will provide for them, protect them, and guide them through life. By putting their hope in God, the psalmist is expressing their confidence in God’s faithfulness and goodness.

Overall, Psalm 33:22 is a prayer of trust and dependence on God’s love and faithfulness. The verse acknowledges that God’s love is unfailing and that the psalmist’s hope is in God alone.

What does “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,” mean?

The phrase “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord” is from Psalm 33:22 in the Bible. This verse is part of a larger psalm that celebrates God’s power and goodness as Creator and Redeemer. The psalmist is expressing trust in God’s love and protection, and asking for it to be with them.

In particular, the phrase “unfailing love” is a translation of the Hebrew word “chesed,” which is a term that carries a rich and complex meaning. We can translate it as “steadfast love,” “loyal love,” or “mercy.” They often used this word in the Hebrew Bible to describe God’s love for His people, which is faithful and unchanging even in the face of their sins and failures.

So, when the psalmist says, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,” they are expressing a desire for God’s enduring love and faithfulness to be present with them. This is a prayer of dependence and trust in God’s goodness, and recognizes the need for His help and guidance in all aspects of life.

What does “Lord, even as we put our hope in you,” mean?

Psalm 33:22 is a verse from the Bible which reads, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” This verse expresses a prayer of trust and faith in God’s love and protection.

The phrase “even as we put our hope in you” is a statement of faith and trust in God. It acknowledges that the Psalmist is placing his hope and confidence in God’s love and protection, even in difficult and uncertain times. This phrase also implies that our hope is not in anything else but in God alone.

The Psalmist is asking God to let His unfailing love be with us as we trust in Him. God’s love, which is unchanging and eternal, roots our hope in Him.

In summary, the phrase “Lord, even as we put our hope in you” expresses the Psalmist’s trust and confidence in God’s love and protection, and his acknowledgement that our hope is firmly placed in God alone.

What is the difference in biblical translations of Psalm 33:22 (KJV, NIV & ESV)

  • Psalm 33:22 KJV biblical translation says:

Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.

Psalm 33:22 KJV
  • Psalm 33:22 NIV biblical translation says:

May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.

Psalm 33:22 NIV
  • Psalm 33:22 ESV biblical translation says:

Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.

Psalm 33:22 ESV

How does Psalm 33:22 give encouragement?

The verse reminds us that God’s love is unfailing, so it is never-ending and unconditional. This can encourage, especially during difficult times when we may feel like we are alone or that God has abandoned us. The verse encourages us to trust in God’s love, knowing that He is always with us and cares for us.

The verse also encourages us to put our hope in God. When we put our hope in Him, we are placing our trust in His promises and His faithfulness. This can encourage when we are facing challenges or uncertainties in life, knowing that God is in control and has a plan for our lives.

The verse is a prayer that asks God to be with us and to show us His unfailing love. This can be comforting, especially when we are feeling overwhelmed or anxious. When we pray, we can experience a sense of peace and comfort, knowing that God is listening and cares about our concerns.

Overall, Psalm 33:22 can be a source of encouragement because it reminds us of God’s unfailing love, encourages us to put our hope in Him, and offers comfort through prayer.

How can I apply Psalm 33:22 to my life?

Psalm 33:22 says, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” This verse reminds us that God’s love for us is unfailing, and we can trust in Him to guide us through our lives. Here are some ways you can apply this verse to your life:

  • Trust in God’s love: Remind yourself that God’s love for you is unfailing, and that He will always be with you no matter what you face in life. This can help you find peace and comfort in difficult times.
  • Put your hope in God: Instead of relying on your own strength and abilities, put your hope in God and trust that He will guide you to where you need to be. This can help you find direction and purpose in your life.
  • Pray for God’s love: Ask God to fill your heart with His unfailing love, and to help you recognize and appreciate it in your daily life. This can help you cultivate a deeper relationship with Him.
  • Show love to others: As you experience God’s unfailing love in your life, share that love with others by showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. This can help you spread God’s love to those around you.

Overall, Psalm 33:22 can be a reminder to trust in God’s love and to put our hope in Him, which can bring peace and purpose to our lives.

A model or example prayer using Psalm 33:22

Dear God,

I come before you today with a humble heart and a spirit of thankfulness. You are the creator of all things, and I am grateful for your loving presence in my life. Your word says in Psalm 33:22, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” Lord, I put my hope in you today, knowing that your love never fails.

I pray you would pour out your love upon me and my loved ones. May we feel your presence in our lives, and may your love fill us up and overflow into the lives of those around us. Help us put our trust in you and to lean on your strength in times of trouble. May we find comfort and peace in your unfailing love.

Lord, I pray you would guide us and direct our paths. May your wisdom and understanding be our compass as we navigate the challenges of life. Help us make wise decisions and to follow the path that leads to your perfect will for our lives.

Lord, I pray you would bless us with joy and happiness. May we find joy in the simple things of life and in the relationships that you have given us? Help us spread your love and joy to those around us, so that others may also experience the goodness of your love.

Thank you, Lord, for your unfailing love. May we always put our hope in you and trust in your goodness. 

In Jesus’ name, 

Amen.

Conclusion: 

God’s unfailing love is always with us. 

Sometimes we cannot recognize or accept His love. 

Exercising the hope that we have in Christ by accepting through acknowledgment helps us experience His hope.


Today’s article is from the forthcoming book: “Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship | The Bible Speaks to Life Issues, Book Three” by Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Ed.D. from Poetry and Prayer Press (c) 2023

How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.

Give Me Understanding