Explore

Search the CEB

  • Psalm 42

    BOOK II

    (Psalms 42–72)

    Psalm 42

    For the music leader. A maskil of the Korahites.

    42 Just like a deer that craves streams of water,
        my whole being craves you, God.
    2 My whole being thirsts for God, for the living God.
        When will I come and see God’s face?
    3 My tears have been my food both day and night,
        as people constantly questioned me,
        “Where’s your God now?”

    4 But I remember these things as I bare my soul:
        how I made my way to the mighty one’s abode,
        to God’s own house,
            with joyous shouts and thanksgiving songs—
            a huge crowd celebrating the festival!
    5 Why, I ask myself, are you so depressed?
        Why are you so upset inside?
    Hope in God!
        Because I will again give him thanks,
            my saving presence and my God.

    6 My whole being is depressed.
        That’s why I remember you
        from the land of Jordan and Hermon,
            from Mount Mizar.
    7 Deep called to deep at the noise of your waterfalls;
        all your massive waves surged over me.
    8 By day the Lord commands his faithful love;
        by night his song is with me—
        a prayer to the God of my life.

    9 I will say to God, my solid rock,
        “Why have you forgotten me?
            Why do I have to walk around,
            sad, oppressed by enemies?”
    10 With my bones crushed, my foes make fun of me,
        constantly questioning me: “Where’s your God now?”

    11 Why, I ask myself, are you so depressed?
        Why are you so upset inside?
            Hope in God!
            Because I will again give him thanks,
            my saving presence and my God.