Psalm 13

Some of the people with whom I meet regularly are dealing with (minor) depression. I have been recommending reading and praying over the Psalms to them, particularly Psalm 13 which is below. The Psalms are excellent for people struggling emotionally and mentally because they are cries to God from the heart. Psalm 13 is especially helpful because it is honest and direct to God from someone experiencing darkness and torment. It identifies an enemy which is significant and ends with hopeful talk of salvation which is a veiled reference to Christ.

How long, LORD? Will you utterly forget me? How long will you hide your face from me?

How long must I carry sorrow in my soul,

grief in my heart day after day?

How long will my enemy triumph over me?

Look upon me, answer me, LORD, my God!

Give light to my eyes lest I sleep in death,

Lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed,”

lest my foes rejoice at my downfall.

But I trust in your mercy.

Grant my heart joy in your salvation,

I will sing to the LORD,

for he has dealt bountifully with me!