If the world’s shallow values become our heart’s deepest longings, disappointment will inevitably befall us. Like the man who built his house on sand (Matt 7:24-27), we will ultimately realise our lives have been established on feeble footings. The world offers pleasure without satisfaction. It can deliver fleeting happiness but no everlasting joy.

Security requires sure foundations. Psalm 43 (together with Psalm 42) is written amid the sorrow of rejection and worldly disappointment. But the Psalmist expresses confidence in two things: God’s direction and God’s destination.

God’s Direction

He calls for God to send his light and faithful care. He prays for God to direct him on the right path in the right manner. That doesn’t mean the path will be easy. On the contrary, it will be dangerous and difficult, which is precisely why God’s direction is required. The Psalmist has confidence that God’s way is best, and so he entrusts his every next step to the Lord.

God’s Destination

He also has confidence in where God’s good direction will take him: the holy mountain where God himself—the majestic creator and sustainer of all life—resides and makes his home.  

By setting his heart on the surety of these two things, the Psalmist holds the antedote for disappointment: hope. Assurance in God’s enduring goodness.

This idea finds its fullest expression in the resurrection of Christ. In Colossians 3:1-2, Paul exhorts the saints in Colossae: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” Sure direction…for a sure destination: “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your a life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory” (Col 3:3-4). Here is the light and faithful care that will lead us home. And it all rests securely on the fact that death has been defeated in Christ.

Send me your light and faithful care,
Show me the way to that place where
The sun ever shines and your mercies are shared
Lead me to glory to live with you there.