Psalm 42 — The Yeti Version

A tumultuous inner dialogue prayer

As a meditative exercise, I am rewriting parts of the bible in my own words. Rewriting the second part of this psalm as a call and response liturgical element for a church service is actually what inspired me to begin this rewriting journey. Rewriting it made me realize that this psalm, which I read many times and heard in many song adaptations, is actually a tumultuous self-dialog / prayer with many rich metaphors. This was so meaningful to me because my prayers are very tumultuous and often include talking to myself and to God, doubting and praising him often in the same breath. So as always, please let me know if you have any feedback or recommendations. For a reliable translation, please reference the ESV Version.

I’m desperate for you, God! I feel it deep down in my bones — I need you!

Who I am needs who you are, the real and true god. When can we meet face-to-face?

I’m drowning in my tears here, and all I hear is people asking me, “Where is your god now?”

But in the darkest of days I remember how I used to be so happy leading others in celebration of the goodness of God.

So I ask myself, “Why are you so sad and anxious? Put your hope in God, and one day you will praise him again. He will get you out of this — he’s your god.”

I am an anxious wreck, so I must remember everything I know about you, God.

But your world is too much for me — I have been hurt so many times by people and things you put in my life.

But God ensures that what happens to me during the day is for my good, and at night his song of hope gives me peace.

So I know you’re my rock, but why does it feel like you’ve forgotten me? And why do I cry when others hurt me?

I feel so alone when everyone says you don’t exist.

So I ask myself, “Why are you so sad and anxious? Put your hope in God, and one day you will praise him again. He will get you out of this — he’s your god.”