Psalm 71 is a beautiful chapter of trust, hope, and praise that that speaks to the heart of anyone seeking refuge in God. Throughout this chapter you can see the character of God, His promises, and the intimate prayers and declarations of praise offered by the psalmist. Let’s dive into what this psalm teaches us about who God is, the promises He gives, the prayers we can bring before Him, and the praise that naturally flows from a heart resting in His care.
Who God Is According to Psalm 71
Throughout Psalm 71 we can see and reflect on the attributes of God, emphasizing His reliability and care for us His people.
My Refuge & Protection – v. 1, 3
God is the safe place we can always turn to. When life feels overwhelming, He is our haven.
My Rock of Safety (Where I Hide) – v. 3
He is our immovable foundation, He protects us in times of trouble, He is our safe place.
My Fortress – v. 3
God is a stronghold, shielding us from life's storms.
My Deliverer & Rescuer – v. 2
He steps in to save and deliver us when we call on Him.
My Only Hope – v. 5
Even when all else fails, God remains our steadfast hope.
My Sustainer Since Birth – v. 6
From the moment we were formed, He has been with us, carrying us through every season.
The Righteous Judge – v. 2, 19
God’s judgments are pure and just, bringing peace to our troubled hearts.
My Strength – v. 16, 18
He empowers us in our weakness and sustains us in our old age.
The Faithful One – v. 22
God’s faithfulness spans generations, never wavering.
My Redeemer – v. 23
He rescues us from sin and restores our lives with His grace.
The Promises of God
As the psalmist clings to these promises, remember that they remain just as true for us today:
God is a rock and fortress for us – v. 3
He provides security and strength when we need it most.
God’s righteousness and salvation are eternal over us – v. 15, 19
His work in our lives lasts forever and will never fail.
God will restore and comfort us again – v. 20–21
Even when we face trials, He will lift us up and bring us peace.
God’s faithfulness spans all generations – v. 5, 18
He is trustworthy and unchanging across time.
God will never forsake us His people – v. 9, 18
We are never alone, even in our weakness or old age.
God redeems and rescues us – v. 23
His salvation is personal, complete, and life-changing.
Prayers and Pleas to God
Psalm 71 shows us how to approach God with honesty and trust, reminding us that we too can come to Him with an open heart and rely on His care.
In you, O LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. – v. 1
A plea for protection and vindication.
Rescue me and deliver me in your righteousness; turn your ear to me and save me. – v. 2
A cry for God’s intervention and help.
Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go. – v. 3
A request for constant access to God’s presence.
Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone. – v. 9
A heartfelt prayer for God’s care in times of frailty.
Do not be far from me, my God; come quickly, O my God, to help me. – v. 12
A cry for God’s nearness and timely help.
Bring me up again from the depths of the earth. – v. 20
A plea for restoration and renewal.
Increase my honor and comfort me once more. – v. 21
A request for God’s restoring grace and comfort.
Declarations of Praise
Despite his trials, the psalmist’s lips overflowed with praise. May these declarations inspire your own worship today:
My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long. – v. 8
A reminder to continually glorify God.
As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more. – v. 14
A commitment to grow in hope and praise.
My mouth will tell of your righteous deeds, of your saving acts all day long. – v. 15
A dedication to sharing God’s goodness with others.
I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, Sovereign LORD; I will proclaim your righteous deeds, yours alone. – v. 16
A declaration of God’s unmatched greatness.
You have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. – v. 17
A reflection on God’s ongoing work in our lives.
My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you—I, whom you have delivered. – v. 23
A celebration of God’s deliverance.
My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long. – v. 24
A commitment to testify to God’s righteousness.
Reflection
Psalm 71 reminds us that in every stage of life—whether in the vigor of youth, the challenges of old age, or moments of deep need—we can rely on God. He is our refuge, hope, and strength. His promises are secure, and His faithfulness is unending.
Take time today to reflect on the attributes of God, rest in His promises, bring your prayers before Him, and let your heart overflow with praise.
What part of Psalm 71 resonates most deeply with your current season of life? How can you incorporate its truths into your prayers and praise today?
Let Psalm 71 guide you to deeper trust and worship as you walk with God.
Embracing a Deeper Journey … with the Almighty I AM
Yolandita Colón