I. Introduction (Verses 1-2)
- The psalmist expresses his deep longing for God.
- He describes his thirst and longing for God like a deer panting for water.
II. Desperation in exile (Verses 3-4)
- The psalmist recalls how he used to worship God in the temple.
- He laments his current state of being far from God.
- He longs to be in God's presence and seeks for God to restore him.
III. Struggles and doubts (Verses 5-7)
- The psalmist questions why he is cast down and disturbed.
- He encourages himself to hope in God, despite his circumstances.
- He remembers God's faithfulness and His presence in times past.
IV. Prayer for deliverance (Verses 8-10)
- The psalmist cries out to God in his distress.
- He pleads with God to lead him and guide him back to His presence.
- He asks for God's mercy and deliverance from his enemies.
V. Assurance of God's faithfulness (Verses 11-12)
- The psalmist encourages himself to put his hope in God.
- He declares his belief that God is his salvation and his rock.
- He vows to praise God even in the midst of his struggles.
VI. Conclusion (Verse 42:1)
- The psalm ends with a repetition of the psalmist's initial cry for God, emphasizing his continued longing and dependence on Him.