Psalms 71 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of Psalms 71

The Book of Psalms is a collection of sacred songs and prayers attributed to various authors, including King David, who is believed to have written the majority of the psalms. Psalm 71 is a prayer of an elderly person seeking God’s protection and guidance during the twilight years of their life. The author in this chapter expresses their trust in God’s faithfulness and their desire to continue praising Him throughout their lifetime. They reflect on God’s past interventions and ask for continued support as they face the challenges of old age. The psalm also foreshadows the author’s hope for the future, as they anticipate the day when they will be able to declare God’s power and righteousness to the next generation.

The themes of this psalm resonate with other biblical passages, such as Psalm 22, where the author expresses a similar sentiment of relying on God’s strength and deliverance. Additionally, the author’s desire to proclaim God’s wonders to future generations echoes the teachings found in Deuteronomy 6, where the Israelites are instructed to pass on their faith to their children.

Psalms 71:1-4

The psalmist in Psalms 71:1-4 opens with a plea for God’s provision and protection, expressing unwavering trust in Him. The first verse of the psalm sets the tone, showing the psalmist’s deep reliance on God as a place of safety and security, saying, “In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame.” This plea for God to never let him be put to shame reflects the psalmist’s desire for God to vindicate him against his enemies and detractors. This theme of seeking refuge in the Lord is a common thread throughout the Psalms, illustrating the concept of God as a strong tower and protector for those who put their trust in Him.

Moving to the second and third verses, the psalmist calls on God to deliver him and rescue him from the hands of the wicked and unjust. Here, the psalmist acknowledges the presence of enemies and evildoers who seek to harm him, highlighting the reality of adversity and persecution that believers may face. The psalmist demonstrates a recognition of God’s power to overcome the schemes of the wicked and to provide a way of escape for His faithful followers by seeking deliverance and rescue from God. This echoes the broader biblical theme of God being a deliverer and protector for His people, as seen in the accounts of the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt and numerous instances of God’s intervention on behalf of His chosen ones. The psalmist in verse 4 continues to affirm his trust in God from a young age, declaring, “Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.”” This reflection on God’s faithfulness throughout the psalmist’s life underscores the continuity of God’s presence and guidance from early beginnings to the present moment. The psalmist’s emphasis on declaring God’s marvelous deeds serves as a reminder of the importance of bearing witness to God’s works and faithfulness, not only for personal reflection but also for the encouragement of others and the glorification of God’s name. This act of declaring God’s deeds aligns with the biblical call for believers to testify to God’s goodness and faithfulness, as expressed in passages like Psalm 145:4 which says, “One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.”

Psalms 71:5-8

The verse in Psalms 71:5-8 breaks down into several key sections that each hold significant meaning within the context of the entire passage. Let’s break down each of these sections:

1. “For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth.”

Here, the psalmist acknowledges that God has been their source of hope and confidence since their youth. This statement conveys a deep sense of trust and reliance on God that has been cultivated over a lifetime. It speaks to a personal history with God, a relationship that has sustained the psalmist through various trials and challenges. This message is timeless and universal, reminding believers of the importance of placing their trust in God from a young age and continuing to lean on Him throughout their lives. It encourages individuals to reflect on their own journeys with God and to find comfort in the unwavering presence of the Lord.

1. “From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you. The psalmist reflects on God’s role in their life from the very beginning in this section. The imagery of being brought forth from the mother’s womb emphasizes God’s hand in creating and sustaining life. It highlights the intimate connection between the individual and their Creator, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of life and provision. The psalmist’s declaration that they will ever praise God underscores a commitment to continuous worship and gratitude, regardless of circumstances. This verse carries a powerful message about the sanctity of life and the importance of recognizing God’s sovereignty over every aspect of our existence.

2. “I have become a sign to many; you are my strong refuge. My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long. The psalmist acknowledges their role as a sign to many in these verses, likely referring to being a testimony or example of God’s faithfulness and power. The psalmist becomes a living testament to the transformative presence of God in their life by testifying to God’s strength as their refuge. The statement that their mouth is filled with praise underscores a lifestyle of worship and declaration of God’s glory. This section emphasizes the impact of personal faith on others and the importance of proclaiming God’s goodness to those around us. It serves as a reminder for believers to live lives that reflect God’s splendor and to consistently bear witness to His work in their lives. Psalms 71:5-8 paints a rich picture of trust, gratitude, and testimony. The psalmist’s words highlight the enduring nature of their relationship with God, from their youth to adulthood. The verses underscore the significance of acknowledging God as the source of hope, praising Him for His sustaining power, and proclaiming His glory to others. This passage not only speaks to the personal experiences of the psalmist but also offers timeless lessons for believers today on the themes of trust, worship, and witness.

Psalms 71:9-13

The psalmist in Psalms 71:9-13 cries out to God in a time of distress and persecution, seeking God’s help and protection against his enemies. The psalmist declares in verse 9, “Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone.”” Here, the psalmist is expressing a deep concern and fear of being abandoned or forgotten by God as he grows older and weaker. This shows the psalmist’s dependence on God not only in times of strength but also in times of weakness and vulnerability. It is a reminder that God’s faithfulness and care are not contingent upon our physical abilities or age, but rather on His unchanging love for His people. This verse highlights the psalmist’s trust in God’s unwavering presence and protection, regardless of his circumstances.

Moving on to verse 10, “For my enemies speak against me; those who wait to kill me conspire together,” the psalmist reveals the presence of enemies who are actively plotting against him. This persecution and danger from adversaries is a common theme throughout the psalms and the Bible. The psalmist’s enemies represent not only physical threats but also spiritual battles that believers face. This verse serves as a reminder that followers of God may encounter opposition and hostility in their lives but can find strength and deliverance through seeking God’s protection and refuge.

Verse 11 continues the plea for God’s intervention, “They say, ‘God has forsaken him; pursue him and seize him, for no one will rescue him.’” Here, the psalmist recounts the taunts and doubts of his enemies, who mock his faith and trust in God. Despite the ridicule and disbelief of others, the psalmist remains steadfast in his reliance on God’s salvation and rescue. This verse underscores the importance of unwavering faith in God’s promises, even in the face of scorn and disbelief from those around us. The psalmist shifts his focus back to God’s faithfulness in verse 12, saying, “Do not be far from me, my God; come quickly, God, to help me.” The psalmist turns to God as his ultimate source of help and deliverance in times of trouble and distress. This verse illustrates the psalmist’s urgency in seeking God’s immediate assistance and emphasizes the closeness of the relationship between the psalmist and his Creator. It serves as a reminder to believers to prioritize seeking God’s presence and aid in all circumstances, knowing that He is always near to those who call upon Him in faith.

Lastly, in verse 13, the psalmist declares, “May my accusers perish in shame; may those who want to harm me be covered with scorn and disgrace.” Here, the psalmist expresses his desire for justice and vindication against his enemies. This imprecation is a common theme in the Psalms, where the psalmists cry out for God’s righteous judgment upon those who seek to harm His people. It demonstrates the psalmist’s trust in God as the ultimate judge who will bring about justice and retribution on behalf of His faithful followers. This verse serves as a reminder that God sees and knows the intentions of the heart, and He will ultimately vindicate His people and bring about justice in His perfect timing. Psalms 71:9-13 is a powerful prayer of dependence, trust, and hope in the midst of adversity and persecution. It reminds believers of the unwavering faithfulness of God, the reality of spiritual battles, the importance of seeking God’s presence and protection, and the assurance of God’s justice and vindication in all circumstances. This passage encourages us to turn to God in times of trouble, to trust in His sovereignty, and to find strength in His unfailing love and protection.

Psalms 71:14-18

Verse 14 begins with the psalmist proclaiming his confidence in God by stating, “But I will hope continually and will praise you yet more and more. The psalmist in this declaration shows unwavering faith and reliance on God, demonstrating that even in the face of challenges or adversaries, he chooses to place his hope in the Lord. This verse sets the tone for the following verses, emphasizing the psalmist’s commitment to praising God through all circumstances.

Moving on to verse 15, the psalmist expresses his dedication to proclaiming God’s righteousness and salvation, asserting, “My mouth will tell of your righteous acts, of your deeds of salvation all the day, for their number is past my knowledge.” Here, the psalmist demonstrates a desire to bear witness to God’s goodness and reflect on His mighty works. The psalmist acknowledges the vastness and incomprehensibility of God’s works by highlighting God’s righteousness and acts of salvation, underscoring the greatness and magnitude of the Lord’s deeds. The psalmist in verse 16 continues to emphasize his dependence on God from a young age, declaring, “I will come with the mighty deeds of the Lord GOD; I will remind them of your righteousness, yours alone.”” This verse portrays a sense of lifelong commitment and remembrance of God’s faithfulness throughout the psalmist’s journey. The psalmist acknowledges the significance of God’s actions in his life and the lives of others by reflecting on the “mighty deeds of the Lord GOD” and God’s righteousness.

Verse 17 shifts the focus to the psalmist’s reliance on God in times of trouble, stating, “O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds.” Here, the psalmist recalls God’s guidance and teachings from his youth, indicating a deep-rooted relationship with the Lord that has sustained him through trials and challenges. The psalmist showcases a consistent pattern of gratitude and reverence for God’s faithfulness by continuing to proclaim God’s wondrous deeds, regardless of the circumstances.

Lastly, in verse 18, the psalmist petitions God for continued strength and empowerment as he grows older, saying, “So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come.” This verse illustrates the psalmist’s desire for God’s presence and assistance throughout his life, not only for his benefit but also to serve as a testament to future generations. It underscores the importance of passing down faith and sharing God’s power and might with others, ensuring that the legacy of God’s work endures through time. A profound representation of faith, trust, and devotion to God is seen in these verses of Psalms 71. The psalmist’s words echo a timeless message of unwavering belief in God’s righteousness, salvation, and mighty deeds. His reflection on God’s teachings from youth to old age inspires a commitment to praising God continually and passing down the knowledge of God’s power to future generations. This serves as a reminder for believers to remain steadfast in their faith, to proclaim God’s works, and to seek His presence in all aspects of life, knowing that He is ever-faithful and deserving of eternal praise.

Psalms 71:19-21

Three distinct sections can be identified in Psalms 71:19-21. Let’s break it down section by section:

1. “Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the high heavens. You who have done great things, O God, who is like you?”

This section praises God’s righteousness and sovereignty. The Psalmist acknowledges God’s greatness and unparalleled power. The Psalmist emphasizes the universal and unchanging nature of God’s character by extolling God’s righteousness that reaches the high heavens. The verse in Psalms 71 serves as a declaration of faith and a source of strength for the Psalmist as they seek protection and deliverance from their enemies. This verse serves as a reminder that God’s righteousness and power are unmatched and can provide comfort and assurance in times of trouble.

1. “You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again; from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again. You will increase my greatness and comfort me again.”

This section reflects on the experiences of the Psalmist, acknowledging that God has allowed them to face many troubles and calamities. Despite the challenges faced, the Psalmist expresses faith in God’s ability to revive and restore them. This verse highlights the theme of God’s faithfulness and redemption throughout the Psalms. The Psalmist finds hope in the belief that God will not abandon them in their time of need but will lift them up again from the depths of despair. It speaks to the cyclical nature of life’s trials and God’s consistent presence in bringing about restoration and comfort.

1. “I will also praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, O my God; I will sing praises to you with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel. My lips will shout for joy when I sing praises to you; my soul also, which you have redeemed.”

   This final section shifts to a declaration of praise and thanksgiving to God. The Psalmist commits to praising God for His faithfulness and redemption. The Psalmist demonstrates a deep sense of gratitude and worship by praising God with musical instruments like the harp and lyre. This section underscores the importance of praising God in all circumstances, even amidst trials and challenges. It showcases the Psalmist’s acknowledgment of God’s role as the Holy One of Israel, emphasizing God’s unique position as the redeemer and source of joy for His people. Through praise and worship, the Psalmist finds solace and reaffirms their trust in God’s faithfulness. Psalms 71:19-21 encapsulates themes of God’s righteousness, faithfulness, redemption, and the importance of praising Him in all situations. It serves as a reminder of God’s unmatched power and goodness, encouraging believers to trust in His ability to revive, comfort, and redeem them. The verses echo similar sentiments found throughout the Bible, such as in Psalms 103:2-5, which emphasizes praising God for His benefits and remembering His faithfulness in times of trouble. The enduring message of these verses is that God remains sovereign, faithful, and worthy of praise, regardless of life’s hardships.

Psalms 71:22-24

The verses in Psalms 71:22-24 read: “I will also praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, Holy One of Israel.” My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you—I whom you have delivered. My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion.”

Firstly, in this section, the psalmist expresses a deep sense of gratitude and devotion to God through the act of praise. The use of musical instruments such as the harp and lyre symbolizes the psalmist’s desire to offer worship to God in a joyful and melodious manner. The psalmist acknowledges God’s unwavering commitment to His people throughout history by praising God for His faithfulness. This act of praise not only serves as a form of worship but also as a declaration of the psalmist’s faith in God’s enduring goodness.

Furthermore, the psalmist reflects on personal experiences of deliverance. The psalmist acknowledges God’s intervention in their life by declaring, “I whom you have delivered,” recognizing that God rescued them from dangers or enemies. This emphasis on deliverance underscores the theme of God’s protection and care for His people, even in times of trouble. It serves as a testimony to God’s power and faithfulness, encouraging others to trust in Him for their own deliverance.

The psalmist goes on to proclaim their intention to proclaim God’s righteous acts continually. This commitment to praise and testify to God’s goodness throughout the day reflects a heart that is constantly aware of God’s presence and blessings. The psalmist becomes a witness to God’s faithfulness by sharing testimonies of God’s righteous acts, inspiring others to trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness. The psalmist acknowledges the defeat of those who sought to harm them. The phrase, “those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion,” reveals God’s protective hand over His faithful servants. This assurance of God’s justice and protection serves as a reminder that God ultimately vindicates His people and confounds their enemies. It reinforces the biblical theme that God is a defender of the weak and a righteous judge who will ultimately judge the wicked. Psalms 71:22-24 encapsulates the psalmist’s deep reverence for God, gratitude for deliverance, commitment to praise, and confidence in God’s justice. It reinforces the timeless message of God’s faithfulness, protection, and deliverance for those who trust in Him. The psalmist’s words serve as a testament to the enduring power of worship, praise, and testimony in building faith and proclaiming God’s righteousness to all generations. This passage resonates with similar themes found throughout the Psalms and the entire Bible, highlighting the importance of worship, testimony, and trust in God’s providence.

After Psalms 71

The final paragraph of a summary of this chapter could be written as follows:

The psalmist’s plea for God’s continued protection and guidance did not go unheard. The writer expressed unwavering faith that the Lord would answer his cries and remain faithful, even in his old age as the chapter drew to a close. This confidence would serve as a powerful foundation as the psalmist moved forward, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. For in the steadfast love of the Almighty, he found the strength to persevere, no matter the circumstances.