Psalms 71:19-21 is about praising God for His righteousness, power, and mercy, acknowledging His role as a source of strength and deliverance in times of trouble.
19 Your righteousness, O God, reaches the high heavens.
20 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.
21 May you increase my greatness and comfort me again.
Setting the Scene for Psalms 71:19-21
In the scene described in Psalms 71:19-21, we find a group of believers gathered in a humble church in a small village. The room is dimly lit by flickering candles, casting a warm glow on the faces of those present. The air is filled with the scent of incense, creating a sense of reverence and peace. The walls are adorned with simple tapestries depicting scenes from the scriptures, adding to the sacred atmosphere.
Among those gathered are Mary, a kind-hearted widow known for her unwavering faith, and John, a young shepherd who has come seeking solace and guidance. They are joined by the village elder, Samuel, a wise man respected for his knowledge of the scriptures. The group has come together to study and meditate on the word of God, seeking comfort and strength in times of trouble.
As they read the verses from Psalms, their voices blend in prayer and praise, lifting their hearts to the heavens. The words of the psalmist resonate deeply with each person present, reminding them of God’s faithfulness and steadfast love. In this sacred space, surrounded by fellow believers, they find solace and hope, knowing that they are not alone in their struggles.
What is Psalms 71:19-21 about?
A beautiful reminder of the unchanging nature of God’s righteousness and salvation is seen in this verse. It serves as a beacon of hope and a reason for gratitude in our lives. Just think about it – despite all the ups and downs we may face, God’s righteousness remains unwavering and His salvation is always there for us. Isn’t it amazing to know that we can always rely on these eternal aspects of God’s character?
This verse also prompts us to reflect on how we respond to God’s righteousness and salvation. Are we taking the time to praise and thank Him for these incredible gifts in our lives? Are we allowing them to shape our perspective and guide our actions? Let’s challenge ourselves to cultivate a heart of gratitude and praise towards God’s righteousness and salvation, recognizing them as the foundation of our faith and the source of our hope. Let’s live each day in awe of the constant presence of God’s goodness and grace in our lives.
Understanding what Psalms 71:19-21 really means
In Psalms 71, we find a heartfelt prayer for God’s help in old age, seeking His righteousness, greatness, and the promise of restoration and comfort. The verses 19 to 21 specifically highlight the magnificence of God’s righteousness and His ability to revive and comfort His people. “Your righteousness, O God, reaches the high heavens,” emphasizes the boundless nature of God’s righteousness, surpassing human understanding and evoking awe and reverence. This echoes Psalm 36:5-6, which speaks of God’s love and faithfulness extending to the heavens, showcasing the vastness of His character.
The psalmist continues, “You who have done great things, O God, who is like you?” This declaration underscores the unparalleled nature of God, acknowledging His supreme power and the wonders He has performed. Isaiah 40:18 poses a similar question, challenging any comparison to the Almighty, reinforcing the message of trust and faith in God’s unmatched abilities. The acknowledgment of trials and hardships in the phrase, “You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again,” resonates with the struggles we face in life. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 1:8-10, we see the promise of God’s deliverance and restoration even in the midst of adversity.
“From the depths of the earth you will bring me up again,” symbolizes the promise of resurrection and renewal, mirroring Ezekiel 37:12-14’s imagery of God bringing life from despair. This assurance of God’s power to uplift us from the lowest points instills hope and faith in His transformative abilities. The final verse, “You will increase my greatness and comfort me again,” encapsulates the promise of restoration and comfort in God’s plan. Isaiah 40:1 echoes this sentiment of God’s comforting presence, assuring His people of His care and compassion in times of need.
These verses resonate with people today, offering hope and assurance in the face of trials and tribulations. By trusting in God’s righteousness and His promise of restoration and comfort, we find solace and strength to navigate life’s challenges. Consider the story of someone who, amidst job loss and financial struggles, found hope and restoration through unwavering faith in God. Through prayer and trust in His provision, they experienced a turnaround, securing a better job and financial stability, showcasing God’s faithfulness in times of need.
In conclusion, Psalms 71:19-21 magnifies God’s righteousness, greatness, and promise of restoration and comfort. Let us find peace in His unfailing character and trust in His ability to revive and uplift us, regardless of the trials we face. May these verses serve as a beacon of hope, guiding us to lean on God’s promises and find comfort in His unwavering love.
What does it mean to praise God continually?
To praise God continually means to recognize His power, faithfulness, and righteousness at all times, even in the face of challenges and trials. It involves expressing gratitude and adoration for His works and character without ceasing, acknowledging His presence and sovereignty in every aspect of life. Believers demonstrate their unwavering trust in God and their commitment to magnify His name regardless of their circumstances by praising Him continually.
This act of constant praise is a reflection of a deep and abiding relationship with God, where one’s heart is fixed on Him and their spirit is attuned to His presence. It signifies a lifestyle of worship and thanksgiving, where every moment becomes an opportunity to glorify God and testify to His goodness. Through continuous praise, believers not only uplift their own spirits but also inspire others to join in exalting the Lord and proclaiming His greatness to the world.
Application
Let’s embrace the strength and righteousness offered by God in our lives. His works and faithfulness are our guiding light, filling us with gratitude and unwavering trust. It’s time to pass on this positivity and hope to those around us, just like sharing the latest updates at work or the latest family news. Will you join me in spreading God’s light in a world hungry for it?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.