Using Psalm 71:19-20
For symptoms of Depression and Worthlessness
Psalm 71:19-20
Commentary
Questions
19Your righteousness, God, reaches to the heavens, you who have done great things. Who is like you, God?
“Righteousness” is a key word here. God is right in the things He does and allows. He knows the future. He has forgiven the past. He graciously controls the present and the future in His almighty power.
God acts in love towards His believers. He has shown this to us in the Person and Work of His Son, Jesus.
- Whose righteousness are we talking about in this passage?
- Is there anyone like God who has done great things?
- What is the greatest thing that God has done for you and for everyone in the world?
- So, through whom has God already shown His love for you?
20Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up.
The other word that is key – it is not written in the passage – is the word, “trust.”
The concept of trust should not be expressed to make or allow a person to feel guilty or bad because they think they lack trust. But to feel strong because of the One in whom they trust – in God.
Lead them to see that God is the strength of their trust and not their prayers or feelings or emotions. It is God and His love for them in Christ that is the strength of their trust.
- Verse 20 talks about some troubles that God has allowed us to see. What are some of troubles that God has allowed you to see recently?
- What comfort and reassurance do you get from the words in verse 20:
“you will restore my life again;
from the depths of the earth
you will again bring me up.”
- From these words of this passage, who has the power and the love for you to help you?
- You have God on your side, who can be against you?
- (You might want to refer them to Romans 8:31-32. “If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all—how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?”)
*From the writings of Rev. Alan Siggelkow. Please cite if including this resource elsewhere.
The above exercise has greater benefit when working with a Christian therapist, your pastor, or a fellow Christian. Interaction and accountability with another person who can provide understanding and encouragement is reinforced in therapy sessions.
