Songs of Summer: Psalm 13 - Abandonment Song (Aug 6)

Two thirds of the Bible's songbook -- the Psalms-- express lament, depression, discouragement, anguish, grief, dismay, and anger to God. These are the "abandonment songs" and they encourage us because here we discover, in God's book, that we are not the first generation to question God, have doubts, and be discouraged and cast down by His actions and inaction.

Scripture Reading - Psalm 13

1 How long, LORD? Will you utterly forget me?
        How long will you hide your face from me?
2 How long must I carry sorrow in my soul,
    grief in my heart day after day?
  How long will my enemy triumph over me?
 
3 Look upon me, answer me, LORD, my God!
    Give light to my eyes lest I sleep in death, 
4 Lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed,”
    lest my foes rejoice at my downfall.

5 But I trust in your
    Grant my heart joy in your salvation,
I will sing to the LORD, 
    for he has dealt bountifully with me!
 

SERMON NOTES

Click here to view/download this morning's sermon notes/slides.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some resources we recommend as we reflect on the Psalms this summer:

A Psalm 13 Inspired Playlist - Songs that came to me (Mark) this week as I was reflecting on Psalm 13... 

Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cure is a reflection on the Psalms by one of the great English pastors, D. Martin Lloyd Jones. Areas he touches include:

  • 1. Regrets in life hurt our trust in God
  • 2. Sin can taint our faith in God
  • 3. Emotions hinder our life in ways that we don't even know
  • 4. Fear can cause us to be like a ship without a rudder

And many more. He lays out the causes (which are many) and the cures (which must be applied). This is not a quick read... it is a classic to encourage study, reflection, and personal application.

Reflections on the Psalms by C. S. Lewis. This little gem "makes clear their significance in our daily lives, and reminds us of their power to illuminate moments of grace as they teach us about God, Scripture, and the significance of faith." Also available as an audible book. 

A Long Obedience In the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson. This book looks at the Psalms 120-134 -- known as the Psalms of Ascents. This grouping of songs were song as people made their way to Jerusalem for the great festivals. Peterson's exposition is moving, theological, and substantial.  Also available as an audible book.

Perseverance: A Long Obedience in the Same Direction is a bible-study based on Psalms 120-134 and Peterson's book. You could use this alone or with others for a summer "Songs of Summer" study/daily devotions.

31 Days to Get the Message: Psalms and Proverbs by Eugene Peterson. The books of Psalms and Proverbs are presented in a thirty-one day audible devotional format. The readings are taken from Peterson's dynamic translation of the Psalms and Proverbs. This might help jumpstart or refresh your devotional habits.

2017Vince Medrano