Navigating Spiritual Dryness: Longing for God's Presence

 

Summary

Psalm 42 and 43 serve as a profound exploration of spiritual dryness and the longing for God's presence. The imagery of a deer panting for water captures the deep thirst of the soul for the living God. This thirst is not a loss of belief but a loss of the felt presence of God, a condition that can lead to spiritual dryness, drought, and deadness. This experience is not necessarily a result of sin or wrongdoing but can occur even when one is faithfully following spiritual disciplines.

In our spiritual journey, we encounter both trainers and doctors. Trainers help us grow through spiritual disciplines like prayer and meditation, while doctors help us address spiritual ailments. Spiritual dryness is one such ailment that requires careful attention. It is crucial to recognize that this condition will inevitably come upon us, and we must be prepared to deal with it effectively.

The psalmist identifies several causal factors that often accompany spiritual dryness: disruption of community, disillusionment with life's events, and physical deprivation. These factors can exacerbate the sense of spiritual deadness, making it essential to address them holistically. The psalmist offers a balanced approach to dealing with this condition, emphasizing the importance of pouring out one's soul, analyzing one's hopes, remembering God's loving kindness, and preaching to one's heart.

Pouring out one's soul involves maintaining spiritual disciplines even when they feel dry and unproductive. Analyzing one's hopes requires examining the things we place our trust in and relocating our glory in God. Remembering God's loving kindness involves reflecting on His grace throughout our lives and turning it into a song of praise. Finally, preaching to one's heart means speaking truth to oneself, reminding oneself of God's unwavering commitment and love.

In times of spiritual dryness, we have a resource that the psalmist did not: the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus experienced the ultimate thirst and abandonment on the cross so that we might never be forsaken by God. By preaching Christ to ourselves, we can find assurance in God's unconditional love and commitment, enabling us to emerge from spiritual dryness stronger and more spiritually mature.

Key Takeaways:

- Spiritual dryness is a common experience in the Christian journey, characterized by a loss of the felt presence of God, not necessarily due to sin or wrongdoing. Recognizing this condition is crucial for spiritual growth. [07:19]

- Disruption of community, disillusionment with life's events, and physical deprivation are common factors associated with spiritual dryness. Addressing these factors holistically is essential for overcoming spiritual deadness. [15:43]

- Pouring out one's soul involves maintaining spiritual disciplines even when they feel dry. This practice keeps us connected to God and allows us to express our longing for His presence. [30:41]

- Analyzing one's hopes during times of dryness helps identify false hopes and inordinate loves. Relocating our glory in God ensures that our significance and security are rooted in His unchanging nature. [36:09]

- Preaching to one's heart involves speaking truth to oneself, reminding oneself of God's unwavering love and commitment. This practice helps us combat spiritual dryness and emerge stronger in faith. [39:20]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:10] - Introduction to Psalm 42 and 43
- [02:43] - Spiritual Disciplines: Trainers and Doctors
- [03:54] - Understanding Spiritual Dryness
- [05:26] - The Condition of Spiritual Thirst
- [07:19] - Spiritual Dryness Without Sin
- [10:27] - New Christians and Spiritual Dryness
- [12:06] - The Importance of Defensive Disciplines
- [15:00] - Causal Factors of Spiritual Dryness
- [16:12] - Disruption of Community
- [20:43] - Disillusionment with Life's Events
- [23:34] - Physical Deprivation
- [25:33] - The Physical and Spiritual Connection
- [29:22] - Cures for Spiritual Dryness
- [36:49] - Remembering God's Loving Kindness
- [39:20] - Preaching to Your Heart
- [42:25] - The Gospel as a Resource
- [44:57] - Conclusion and Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
- Psalm 42-43

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#### Observation Questions

1. What imagery does the psalmist use to describe his spiritual thirst in Psalm 42:1-2, and what does this reveal about his relationship with God? [00:10]

2. How does the psalmist express his feelings of spiritual dryness and longing for God's presence throughout Psalm 42 and 43? [06:07]

3. What are the repeated questions the psalmist asks himself in these Psalms, and what do they indicate about his internal struggle? [31:53]

4. How does the psalmist describe his past experiences with community worship, and what impact does the disruption of this community have on him? [16:12]

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#### Interpretation Questions

1. In what ways does the psalmist's experience of spiritual dryness challenge the notion that such experiences are always a result of personal sin or wrongdoing? [08:05]

2. How might the psalmist's practice of "pouring out his soul" and "preaching to his heart" serve as a model for dealing with spiritual dryness today? [30:41]

3. What role does remembering God's loving kindness play in the psalmist's journey through spiritual dryness, and how might this practice be beneficial for believers today? [36:49]

4. How does the psalmist's experience of physical deprivation contribute to his spiritual condition, and what does this suggest about the connection between physical and spiritual well-being? [24:29]

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#### Application Questions

1. Reflect on a time when you experienced spiritual dryness. What factors contributed to it, and how did you respond? How might the psalmist's approach offer new strategies for you? [07:19]

2. The psalmist emphasizes the importance of community in spiritual life. How can you actively engage in or rebuild your spiritual community to prevent or address spiritual dryness? [20:22]

3. Consider the things you place your hope in. Are there any false hopes or inordinate loves that might be contributing to your spiritual dryness? How can you relocate your glory in God? [36:09]

4. How can you incorporate the practice of "preaching to your heart" into your daily routine? What truths about God's love and commitment do you need to remind yourself of regularly? [39:20]

5. In what ways can you ensure that your physical well-being supports your spiritual health? Are there specific changes you need to make in your lifestyle to address this? [25:33]

6. How can the gospel of Jesus Christ, particularly His experience of ultimate thirst and abandonment, provide assurance and strength during your times of spiritual dryness? [43:58]

7. Identify one spiritual discipline that feels dry or unproductive for you right now. How can you commit to maintaining this discipline, and what support do you need to do so? [30:41]

Devotional

Day 1: Recognizing Spiritual Dryness as a Natural Part of Faith
Spiritual dryness is a common experience in the Christian journey, characterized by a loss of the felt presence of God, not necessarily due to sin or wrongdoing. It is crucial to recognize this condition as a natural part of spiritual growth. This dryness can feel like a deep thirst, similar to a deer panting for water, as described in Psalm 42. It is not a sign of weak faith but an invitation to deepen one's relationship with God. Understanding that spiritual dryness is a shared experience among believers can provide comfort and encouragement. [07:19]

"As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?" (Psalm 42:1-2, ESV)

Reflection: When have you experienced spiritual dryness in your life? How can you prepare yourself to embrace it as a natural part of your faith journey today?


Day 2: Addressing the Causes of Spiritual Dryness
Disruption of community, disillusionment with life's events, and physical deprivation are common factors associated with spiritual dryness. These factors can exacerbate the sense of spiritual deadness, making it essential to address them holistically. Disruption of community can lead to feelings of isolation, while disillusionment with life's events can shake one's faith. Physical deprivation, such as lack of rest or nourishment, can also impact spiritual well-being. By identifying and addressing these factors, believers can work towards overcoming spiritual dryness and restoring their connection with God. [15:43]

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)

Reflection: What specific disruptions or disillusionments are currently affecting your spiritual life? How can you address these factors to restore your spiritual vitality today?


Day 3: Maintaining Spiritual Disciplines in Dry Seasons
Pouring out one's soul involves maintaining spiritual disciplines even when they feel dry and unproductive. This practice keeps us connected to God and allows us to express our longing for His presence. It is important to continue engaging in prayer, meditation, and other spiritual practices, even when they seem fruitless. By doing so, we demonstrate our commitment to God and open ourselves to His presence, even in times of spiritual drought. This perseverance can lead to a deeper and more mature faith. [30:41]

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." (Romans 12:12, ESV)

Reflection: What spiritual discipline do you find most challenging to maintain during dry seasons? How can you commit to practicing it consistently this week?


Day 4: Analyzing and Realigning Our Hopes
Analyzing one's hopes during times of dryness helps identify false hopes and inordinate loves. Relocating our glory in God ensures that our significance and security are rooted in His unchanging nature. It is essential to examine the things we place our trust in and determine whether they align with God's will. By shifting our focus from worldly desires to God's eternal promises, we can find true fulfillment and peace. This realignment allows us to experience God's presence more fully and overcome spiritual dryness. [36:09]

"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." (Colossians 3:2, ESV)

Reflection: What false hopes or inordinate loves are you currently holding onto? How can you realign your focus to place your hope and glory in God today?


Day 5: Preaching Truth to Our Hearts
Preaching to one's heart involves speaking truth to oneself, reminding oneself of God's unwavering love and commitment. This practice helps us combat spiritual dryness and emerge stronger in faith. By affirming God's promises and His faithfulness, we can counter negative thoughts and feelings of abandonment. This internal dialogue strengthens our trust in God and reinforces our identity as His beloved children. Through this practice, we can find assurance in God's unconditional love and commitment, enabling us to navigate spiritual dryness with confidence. [39:20]

"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." (Psalm 42:11, ESV)

Reflection: What truths about God's love and commitment do you need to remind yourself of today? How can you preach these truths to your heart in moments of doubt or dryness?

Quotes



"Spiritual dryness reveals inordinate love, false hopes. Perfect example of this is in Psalm 1 uh pardon me Psalm 3 Psalm three is about when David was on the run for his life because his favorite son the son that he loved the most Absalom had actually pulled off a coup dayah had uh was was uh trying to to take David's Throne was now trying to hunt him down and kill him so he could have the kingship and there were two things in David's life that had been the source of his glory now the word Glory literally means wait it means significance it means something that makes you matter wait weightiness and the two things that were David's Glory were number one the love of his son and family and number two the love and acclaim of his people and he lost both of them and yet right in the middle of Psalm 3 verse three it's a short song he says this but you oh Lord are my shield my glory and the lifter of my head pretty famous verse but do you see what it's saying you oh Lord are my shield my glory and the lifter of my head and what he's doing at that point is he says my son used to be my glory my people used to be my glory I've lost them and it hurts me but I'm not devastated because what I am doing in this moment is I am relocating my glory I'm relocating my glory in you your approval your smile your love your support I've got that and if I've got that then I won't be devastated by the loss of anything else I will lift up my head anyway that's what's happening here do you know that what he's saying is I see that one of the reasons I'm so downcast because of the events of the life that you know have made me wonder and all the other things that have happened is I see there's certain things I've been putting my hopes in again we don't know what they are he doesn't say what they are verse in Psalm 3 it's easier to discover what those things are because in verse in in Psalm 3 you have example of David and Absalom and and how he's lost his kingship and he's lost what his his his son's love here you don't know what it is but I can tell you this in times of dryness that's when to look what is it that you really hope in what is it that is your real significance what are the things that you really rest in don't rest so much in them relocate your hope shift your hope and that's what he's doing it's very very profound during times do you know the difference between during times of spiritual discouragement and dryness he's not repenting he's not beating himself on the chest saying oh I must be doing things wrong I guess I'm not praying enough I'm not reading my Bible enough maybe I'm maybe I need to do this and maybe I need to do more this no but what he is doing he is doing he is doing self-examination at a profound level he sees things that he puts his hopes in which are not going to be able to sustain his soul unless he hopes in God so he pours out his soul he analyzes his hopes thirdly he remembers the loving kindness of God you notice how down here in verse five verse 6 he says my soul is cast down therefore I will remember so he is he is very very deliberately thinking about something remembering something but he's not only thinking about God in general verse 8 the Lord will command his loving kindness in the daytime and the night his song will be with me a prayer to the god of my life the commentators say this he is thinking about God's loving kindness which is the Hebrew word Cas which means Covenant faithfulness unmar Grace uncond conditional love and he's thinking about his entire life he's thinking about the history of redemption that's the Bible and about he's seeing the grace of God in and all of that he's thinking about his his own personal history all of his life and he's thinking about the grace of God and he's turned it into a song you know why by the way because the heading of this though we didn't have it printed this is not a Psalm of David this is a song of one of the sons of Kora and First Corinth 1 Chronicles 6 tells us the sons of Kora were professional musicians full-time artists notice this one happens to be a string instrumentalist because at the end he says I'm going to pick up my harp again someday and what he's doing is he is turning the grace of God into a song that he sings to himself even at night now lastly he's remembering the grace of God he's reanalyzing his hopes he's pouring out his soul and and then he finally this is the key in a way he takes all that and what does he do he has learned to preach to his heart notice the three refrains are not prayers he's not talking to God he's not saying why am I cast down oh my God nor is he talking to us he's saying why am I so cast down oh my people but he's saying why are you so cast down oh my soul and Dr Lloyd Jones in his famous sermon says this is the key you'll never get out of spiritual dryness unless you learn how to do this he's listened to his heart he's poured his heart out he's analyzed his hopes he's thought about the grace of God but at one point he stops listening to his heart and he starts talking to his heart why are you cast down on my soul look at this do you know how to do that don't you in times of spiritual dryness and discouragement every morning you wake up and your heart is talking oh my gosh oh my gosh oh know no it's terrible it's terrible it's terrible at some point you have to grab your heart and say listen Heart shut up and listen do you know do you know when to do that do you see the balance here this is not buck up but this is not just listen and listen and listen and I I'm sorry to be so self-referential but I can't help it this guy has learned to preach now I know something about this and let me tell you it takes a lot of listening to be a good preacher if you want to preach to people in New York you want to preach to people in Bombay you want to preach to people in London it doesn't matter but wherever you go you can't just walk in and say I know what I'm doing you have to listen to them you have to live with them you have to you have to find out what their hopes are what their fears are what their strengths are what their weaknesses are so that you can build up their strengths and you can you identify your weakness their weaknesses but you have to do lots of lots and lots of listening but at some point you turn and you say now listen and if you've done your listening well they'll do their listening well it's very hard to learn how to preach to a group of people if you have listened to your heart so that you found its false hopes you know you really listened carefully at some point you have to turn around and you have to learn how to preach the grace of God to yourself you have just like I've had to learn how to find illustrations that ring your bell you say oh I get it you have to learn illustrations that ring your heart's Bell but it's some point you have to learn do you know how to do this after you've listened and listened do you finally turn around and say now listen self just shut up and you listen to me you take yourself in hand you say why are you like this you've forgotten this you've forgotten this You' forgotten this do you know how to do that that is an absolutely essential skill and you have to and what will the result be what's fun is notice the realism of this Psalm he doesn't say say hope in God I I do now praise him that would be denial nor does he say hope in God I'll never praise him that would be despondency he says hope in God I will praise him and if you look carefully you'll see a progression I don't have the time to trace it out but you'll see that bit by bit by bit he starts in the dumps he moves himself up because you know in verse five he says hope in God for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance which simply means all I want is to see him come back but by the time he gets to the very bottom it says hope in God for I shall yet Praise Him the help of my countenance which is his way of saying I can feel him already beginning to lift up my face lift up my heart lift up my spirits the results will happen slow but they will happen okay last point I don't know how he preached to his heart about the loving kindness of God about the grace of God God but we've got a resource he doesn't have I just told you it's very hard to learn how to preach because you've you've got you've got to listen so that the people will listen to you if you listen to them well they'll listen to you if you haven't listened to them well then the things you say we're just going to bounce right off and they're going to say that was boring or stupid or offensive but let me tell you a way to preach the gospel to your heart with a kind of uh vividness and effect iess that he didn't have the biggest problem during times of dryness is you say I think God has finally given up on me he's not there makes sense I'm an idiot I've been a failure I'm inadequate he's abandoned me no says the psalmist to the heart I will yet praise him he's a loving kind God he's a gracious God he will not abandon you well how do I know here's how you you and I know here's something you can use in your heart read Psalm 42 to 43 and listen to the one who really said I thirst who really said I'm dying of thirst read it and hear the one who said my God my God why have you forgotten me read it and think of the one whose enemies taunted him where is your god let's see if God will come and save him don't you see Jesus Christ really experienced not just the loss of the feeling of God he lost God even though he was trusting God he he had the ultimate thirst the ultimate Cosmic th thirst he was really forgotten by God he was really forsaken by God he really experienced The Thirst of God why so that in spite of your failures and inadequacy God will never give up on you God treated him and punished him and gave him the things we deserve so we can receive his commitment his love unconditionally and that's what you have to say to yourself and if you say that to yourself if you preach Christ to yourself you'll get out of the you'll get out of the trough and you'll be better for it you will have grown what's interesting is when you deal with spiritual dryness properly you don't just get back on track when you do get back on track you find yourself having you you get back far down the path far further ahead far humbler far happier far stronger than you were before I dare not trust the sweetest frame but wholy lean on jesus' name in Christ the solid rock I Stand On Christ the solid rock I stand all of the ground is sinking sand let's pray father we ask that now in the Lord's Supper you would make it real to us what your son did we pray Lord for those of us who are spiritually dry right now that the this actual Sacrament will be part of the remedy we pray that you would uh help us though most of all to expect recognize analyze and treat our own hearts and the hearts of those around us so that we can grow in Grace in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus in his name we pray amen for more of this series and other resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church please visit www.gsp.ro" [00:33:56]

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Transcript
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