Psalm 71

We noted in our previous study that Psalm 70 is the short, basic version of a prayer often prayed by the Psalmist.  It is worth memorizing so as to be able to use it in the variety of troubles commonly experienced in the life of the saint.  Psalm 71 is a perfect example of taking Psalm 70 and using it in a specific situation of life.  Both have the same emphasis on seeking God’s haste in helping face those who desire the hurt of the believer.  But in the case of Psalm 71, the prayer is prayed in the context of growing older.  The God we have learned to trust in our youth must be trusted as the days and years roll by.

Like Psalm 70, today’s Song is also a perfect illustration of the thematic rhythm of Hebrew poetry. Consider the following.

Ø  Ps. 71 begins, divides and ends with a common thought.  The concern with those who desire my hurt is found in v1-3 where the Psalmist trusts God to help, v12-13 where He pleads for God's help, and v22-24 where he praises and testifies of the God who faithfully helps.

Ø  In vs. 4-6 and 19-21 the writer highlights God’s perfections, the first as truth he discovered in his youth and the latter as truth he holds to in his later years.

Ø  In v7-11 the Hymnist acknowledges that God has made him to stand out (be a wonder) in his youth (v7-8) and thus he pleads with God to continue to do the same in his later years (v9-11).  In v14-18 he vows to continue to trust in God (v14-16) and thus pleads with God to continue His faithfulness in his later years.

These connections are helpful in our study but let us now consider this Song and its importance to us in living a life that pleases God.  First, we are approaching a new year.  This is always a time to reflect on the past as well as anticipate the future.  Perhaps we look to the past and we believe that God has, in His righteousness, brought us into great trial.  If God has done this in righteousness, and all He does is righteous, then will we count on Him to do what is righteous for His elect?  Will we trust Him in 2016 as we have in 2015?  Will our hope be “continual”?

This holiday season (American Thanksgiving through Christmas) we have spent time with family.  Our children and grandchildren are, of course, all getting older.  It is interesting to watch them as they go through the phases of life.  I think they are watching me at the phase of life I have been encountering.  In every case we must ask if we are growing in faith?  Are we committed to trust God, regardless of last year's disappointments or next year's uncertainties?

Let us also ask if, like the Psalmist, we are committed to declaring the praise of God in the year to come?  Are we firmly committed to being vocal about the evidences we WILL see of His righteousness and faithfulness?