Psalm 88: A Prayer of Despair
"I GIVE UP," Nancy said as she buried her face in her hands. Nancy was not a passive person. She worked hard as a single mother to provide for her children. She had developed a good support system for herself. She was actively, compassionately engaged in life. But a series of losses had left her deeply shaken. Everything she had worked so hard for seemed to be gone. Nancy felt defeated. And without hope. Despair is giving up. Or, as the psalmist expresses it, despair is a time when "darkness" becomes our "closest friend."
Warming Up to God
What pictures come to mind when you think of a person who is experiencing despair?
Read Psalm 88. »
Discovering the Word
- What evidence is there of despair in this psalm?
- What emotional impact did you experience as you read this psalm?
- Contrast the first and last verses of this psalm. Most psalms which express strong doubts end with hope or praise. This psalm ends with doubt and despair. What is it like to be left with unresolved questions?
- The writer blames God for his desperate situation. What does he say in blaming God (vv. 6-9, 15-18)?
- In spite of his sense that God has rejected him and hurt him, the psalmist continues to talk with God. What does this say about his relationship with God?
Applying the Word
- What reactions do you have to the psalmist blaming God?
- Think of a time when it was difficult for you to talk to God. What was that experience like for you?
Responding in Prayer
What would you like to say to God about the areas in life that feel "dark" or hopeless to you?
For Further Study
Hope by J. I. Packer & Carolyn Nystrom