Psalm 13: A Prayer of Self-Doubt
PEOPLE ASK ABOUT God: "Why did God let this happen?" "Was he unable to respond to my prayers?" "Was it my fault?" "Was my faith too weak?" These painful questions and the doubts which they represent are difficult to discuss with other people. They can also be very difficult to share with God.
Fortunately, the Bible itself gives voice to these painful questions. God is not shocked by our struggles with doubt. May knowing that God is able to respond to doubt in helpful ways give you the courage to pray when your heart is full of unanswerable questions.
Warming Up to God
At what times in your life have you struggled with doubt? Talk openly with God about your it; he wants to know your true feelings.
Read Psalm 13. »
Discovering the Word
- The author begins with two questions that express his doubts about God. What are his concerns?
- In verse 2 what reasons does he give for his sorrow?
- Why is it helpful to express our doubts to God?
- The author not only has questions about God, he also has questions about himself. He asks, "How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart?" What is it about the experience of doubt that causes people to question themselves?
- The writer ends the prayer of doubt with a statement of trust (vv. 5-6). How is it possible to doubt and trust at the same time?
Applying the Word
- When is it difficult for you to follow the writer's example in expressing your doubts about God?
- How might it give you courage in your spiritual struggle to know that the Bible gives voice to doubts?
Responding in Prayer
What doubts would you like to express to God?
For Further Study
The God Who Hears by W. Bingham Hunter