Psalm 71

1. This psalm has many interesting points, but maybe its perspective is what makes it most interesting. This psalm is written from the perspective of an older man, trusting in God, but still in need of seeking God’s deliverance. The MacArthur Study Bible says, “At a time in his life when he thinks he should be exempt from certain kinds of troubles, he once again is personally attacked. Though his enemies conclude that God has abandoned him, the psalmist is confident that God will remain faithful” (page 791).

2. Knowing the perspective makes verse 1 quite an interesting opening. “Let me never be ashamed.” It seems as though the writer has not been ashamed before, but still needs to plead for strength, even in his old age.

3. Verse 3 shows the trust the writer has in God’s faithfulness. He asks God to be a “rock of habitation” and also says that God is “my rock and my fortress.” It is interesting that the poet says that he wants to “continually” come to the habitation of God. Even in old age, one should want to spend his/her time with the Lord.

4. Verses 2 and 4 introduce the problem of the writer. Though aged, he is still seeking refuge from enemies. What a grand reminder that those who are elderly need to continually keep their eyes fixed on the Lord and His help.

5. Verses 5 and 6 need to be taught to our young people. They beautifully express a lifetime of faithful living, and remind those who are raising children to start teaching those precious little ones about God at a young age–even from birth!

6. Verse 7 is interesting to me. Because the poet has been faithful, his life has “become a marvel to many.” When we are faithful no matter what comes our way, people will be amazed for many reasons. They will wonder why God has caused these things to happen. Others will wonder why God would allow them. Some will wonder why we stay faithful. But, we are teaching!

7. A beautiful and personal prayer is found in verse 9. What a heart-felt cry for an aged follower of God.

8. Verses 12-13 contain words similar to those found in many other psalms, as the poet asks for God’s immediate and powerful help with this situation. The verses begin, though, by asking for God’s protection; the key to understanding God’s help.

9. In verses 14-16, the writer shows his complete trust in God. He may have enemies, but he is going to remember what God has done, and teach it to others.

10. Another great verse about living a faithful life is verse 17. Even in his old age, the psalmist still teaches others. What an example!

11. Verse 19 shows us that the writer has looked around at some of the “gods” worshipped by others, but knows that the God of heaven is the greatest (and only) God. “O God, who is like You?”

12. The writer, looking back over his life, knows the difficulties he has been through. He is now able to see how God helped him through those difficult times (verse 20). He knows that God will help with this trial, too.

13. As with many other psalms, the poet ends by saying he will praise the Lord (verses 22-24). In verse 22, he even mentions praying “Your truth.” We know that God is truth, and that God has given us Truth (the Bible). We should praise Him for that, and give honor to the Bible.