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I. THE NATURE OF SUCH ECLIPSES. It is quite true that God never ceases to love His children, but still the people of God are sensible of eclipses of the soul such as the Psalmist describes in this Psalm. God has not really deserted His children, but it seems as if He had. In providential matters they fail to recognise His hand; His consolations cease in their spirits, and they are full of darkness and bitterness.

II. THE CAUSES OF THESE ECLIPSES. Why does God thus appear to desert His people at all? The end of God's discipline is to make His people feel their absolute dependence upon Himself. These eclipses teach us —

1. That God is the source of happiness;

2. The source of wisdom;

3. The source of strength; and

4. The source of life. Why does God hide His face so long? Simply because we are so slow to learn the great truths which He designs to teach.

III. THE DUTY OF THE SAINTS IN THESE HOURS OF DARKNESS. Not discontent, and not despair.

1. Wait in faith.

2. Wait in prayer.

3. Wait in hope. When the trial is over your soul shall be deeper, brighter, and more fruitful.

(W. L. Watkinson.)

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KJV: {To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.} How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?

WEB: How long, Yahweh? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?