Psalms – Chapter 42

Old Testament6 Verses

1A psalm for David. Judge me, O God, and distinguish my cause from the nation that is not holy: deliver me from the unjust and deceitful man.

2For thou art God my strength: why hast thou cast me off? and why do I go sorrowful whilst the enemy afflicteth me?

3Sent forth thy light and thy truth: they have conducted me, and brought me unto thy holy hill, and into thy tabernacles.

4And I will go in to the altar of God: to God who giveth joy to my youth.

5To thee, O God my God, I will give praise upon the harp: why art thou sad, O my soul? and why dost thou disquiet me?

6Hope in God, for I will still give praise to him: the salvation of my countenance, and my God.

Reflection for Today

The early section of Psalms—Chapter 42 of 150—opens a particular moment in the story of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God.

According to Catholic teaching, the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589). This chapter especially highlights care for the poor and vulnerable, a theme the Catechism develops in relation to the whole of revelation (CIC 74).

May your reading of Psalms Chapter 42 become true lectio divina: read the words, meditate on their meaning, respond in prayer, and rest in God's presence. Ask the Holy Spirit to show how God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him applies to your life today.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

Deepen your understanding with these related articles