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OVERCOMING DESPAIR THROUGH TRUST IN GOD

Text: Psalm 13 
8 January 2006

(I) RECOGNISING THE SYMPTOMS OF DESPAIR

1. Daily Sorrow

“Having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?” Psalm 13:2

2. Limited personal counsel

“How long shall I take counsel in my soul,…” Psalm 13:2

3. Doubts

“How long, O LORD? Will You forget me forever?
How long will You hide Your face from me?” Psalm 13:1

4. Impatience with God

“How long, O LORD?…” Psalm 13

(II) POSSESSING A POWERFUL TRUST IN GOD

1. Trusting in God through His enlightenment

“Consider and hear me, O LORD my God; enlighten my eyes,…” Psalm 13:3

a. Seeking enlightenment

b. Having an enlightened perspective to see beyond despair

2. Trusting in God’s extensive mercies

“But I have trusted in your mercy.” Psalm 13:5

(III) EMPLOYMENT OF TRUST TO FIGHT DESPAIR

1. Fighting despair through prayer.

“Consider and hear me, O Lord my God…” Psalm 13:3

2. Fighting despair with joy

“My heart shall rejoice in your salvation.” Psalm 13:5

3. Fighting despair by singing to the Lord

“I will sing to the Lord…” Psalm 13:6

4. Fighting despair by counting our blessings.

“Because He had dealt bountifully with me.” Psalm 13:6