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Book of Psalms - Chapter 13 - Verse 1

13:1
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?

Meaning

When David penned the words of Psalm 13, he was expressing deep anguish and despair. As a man after God's own heart, David understood the importance of maintaining a close relationship with the Lord. In this verse, he is pouring out his heart to God, questioning why he feels abandoned and forgotten. The phrase "How long wilt thou forget me, O Lord? forever?" indicates David's desperation for God's presence and intervention in his life. By asking how long God would hide His face from him, David is questioning why he feels separated from God and seeking reassurance of God's continued love and care.

This verse serves as a reminder that even those with strong faith and close relationships with God can experience periods of doubt and distress. It highlights the importance of honest communication with God, even in times of trouble. Through David's candid expression of his feelings, readers can find comfort in knowing that it is acceptable to bring their doubts and struggles before the Lord. Ultimately, Psalm 13 reflects the human experience of feeling abandoned and seeking the presence of God to bring solace and reassurance.

Theological Overview

Psalm 13:1 is a cry of despair from David, the author, expressing his feelings of abandonment and loneliness. The use of the word "forget" in this verse reflects David's perception that God has forgotten him, questioning if God will continue to ignore him forever. The phrase "hide thy face from me" further emphasizes David's sense of God's absence and lack of presence in his life. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the human experience of feeling disconnected from God, despite His promise of never leaving or forsaking His people. It serves as a reminder that even in times of darkness and doubt, believers can cry out to God, expressing their raw emotions, and ultimately find comfort and restoration in His presence.

American Standard Version

[For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David]. How long, O Jehovah? wilt thou forget me for ever? How long wilt thou hide thy face from me?
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