Psalms 42 — Jamieson–Fausset–Brown
42:1–2
1-2. Compare (Psa 63:1). panteth--desires in a state of exhaustion.
42:3
3. Where is thy God?--implying that He had forsaken him (compare 2Sa 16:7; Psa 3:2; 22:8).
42:4
4. The verbs are properly rendered as futures, "I will remember," c.,--that is, the recollection of this season of distress will give greater zest to the privileges of God's worship, when obtained.
42:5
5. Hence he chides his despondent soul, assuring himself of a time of joy. help of his countenance--or, "face" (compare Nu 6:25; Psa 4:6; 16:11).
42:6
6. Dejection again described. therefore--that is, finding no comfort in myself, I turn to Thee, even in this distant "land of Jordan and the (mountains) Hermon, the country east of Jordan. hill Mizar--as a name of a small hill contrasted with the mountains round about Jerusalem, perhaps denoted the contempt with which the place of exile was regarded.
42:7
7. The roar of successive billows, responding to that of floods of rain, represented the heavy waves of sorrow which overwhelmed him.
42:8
8. Still he relies on as constant a flow of divine mercy which will elicit his praise and encourage his prayer to God.
42:9–10
9-10. in view of which [Psa 42:8], he dictates to himself a prayer based on his distress, aggravated as it was by the cruel taunts and infidel suggestions of his foes.
42:11
11. This brings on a renewed self-chiding, and excites hopes of relief. health--or help. of my countenance--(compare Psa 42:5) who cheers me, driving away clouds of sorrow from my face. my God--It is He of whose existence and favor my foes would have me doubt.