The Cry From a Storm-Filled HeartSample

Crying Out to God

In Psalm 43, we see more than just a cry for help; we see a profound commitment to God. The psalmist requests deliverance and also expresses a resolve to worship. Verse 4 reveals this resolve: “Then I will go to the altar of God, to God my exceeding joy, and I will praise you with the lyre, O God, my God.” The psalmist contemplates what the fulfillment of his requests will mean and has already determined in his heart to worship God if his prayers are answered.

This commitment contrasts sharply with the negotiations often made by unbelievers. We’ve all heard stories of people trying to bargain with God—promising worship or devotion in exchange for granted requests. Here, the psalmist’s worship is not a bargaining chip but a response to God. It is God-centered, not self-centered.

The psalmist resolves to worship God in a specific way—through songs of praise, as the sons of Korah were set apart to do. He says, “I will praise you with the lyre, O God, my God.” The psalmist will worship and praise the God who is his exceeding joy, the God who is his God, his treasure.

Trials test our true desires and priorities. They also have a way of purifying our desires and sharpening our focus on what truly matters. The psalmist’s commitment to worship reveals his ultimate desire is to know and glorify God. He finds his joy in God, and this is what he longs for during his trials. When we face challenges, we should ask ourselves: Is God the goal of our desires? Is knowing God and finding joy in Him our ultimate aim? When trials strip away other things, do we feel a sense of loss or see it as an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God?

The psalmist ends with a powerful reminder of hope: “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.” This verse emphasizes the importance of preaching to ourselves during trials. What we say to ourselves matters. In times of difficulty, remind yourself of God’s faithfulness and resolve to worship Him. Let your commitment to God be the anchor that holds you steady in the storm.

Where are your desires and priorities? Commit to worship God as the fulfillment of your deepest longings, your exceeding joy and your salvation. Let your resolve to worship Him guide you through every trial. True joy and peace are found in Him alone.