Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 71

These last four psalms of Book Two contrast with the earlier psalms that describe God’s mighty acts in creation and redemption, ending with God’s march to Zion (Psalms 65–68). Psalms 69–71 describe the king's suffering, and Psalm 72 responds with a prayer for God to bless the king.

This untitled lament by an aging believer is more a confession of confidence and hope than a cry of abandonment by God. The psalmist experienced God's power and protection in his youth (Psalm 71:5–8) and now prays for rescue from enemies who pursue him in his old age (Psalm 71:9–13).

Even in danger, he continues to speak of God's past faithfulness and looks forward with hope to sharing with the next generation that God is faithful and righteous.

The poet recognizes God as a dependable protector who will act justly towards him and his oppressors. See also Psalm 31:1–3.

The psalmist has trusted God throughout his life (see Psalm 22:9).

The aging believer turns to the Lord for hope. As questions from his adversaries get under his skin and his own strength fails, he asks God to answer his prayers. He does not seek answers to prayer for himself but so that he can tell the story to the next generation.

The poet prays for continued fellowship with God (see Psalm 9:10; 51:11). In his weakness, the poet needs the Lord's strength even more (see Psalm 143:7).

The psalmist's enemies plan and scheme together (Psalms 2:2; 21:11; 31:13; 35:4; 63:9–10).

The psalmist compares his goodness to his enemies' evil. He focuses on the Lord, even in difficult times (see Psalms 9:17–18; 27:13–14).

God’s righteous character provides encouragement and strength in the midst of suffering. The wounded psalmist confesses faith in God’s ability to transform his misery and weakness into abundant life.

You will bring me back up: The psalmist hopes for the renewal of an abundant earthly life. This later became grounds for belief in the resurrection of the dead.

Knowing God provides comfort also assures the poet of God's presence, care, and goodness (Psalms 23:4, 6; 86:17). God's comfort increases the psalmist's sense of being alive (see Psalm 119:50).

As he awaits God’s rescue, the psalmist prepares himself to declare with instruments and voice that God is faithful and righteous.