RTW 2023

My life is an example to many, because you have been my strength and protection.

Psalm 71:7

“We have here THE PRAYER OF THE AGED BELIEVER, who in holy confidence of faith, strengthened by a long and remarkable experience, pleads against his enemies, and asks further blessings for himself.” – Charles Spurgeon

What does my life say about God?

• Does it demonstrate that God is dependable, because I have depended on Him?
• Does it demonstrate that God is trustworthy, because I have trusted Him?
• Does it demonstrate that God is worthy, because I have and continue to devote my live to Him?

What does my life say about my devotion to God?

• Is my hope in the things of this world or the Sovereign Lord? (Psalm 71:5)
• Does my confidence rest in me or God? (Psalm 71:5)
• Do I rely on a religion about God or a relationship with God? (Psalm 71:6)
• Does my mouth boast in or blame Him? (Psalm 71:8)
• Am I becoming an example to the next generation? (Psalm 71:16)
• Have I have been teachable? (Psalm 71:17)
• How do I handle hard times and heartaches? (Psalm 71:20)

Does my life marvel about me, or marvel about God?

Do I deflect glory, so I can reflect God?

‍

Here it is in black and white.

God allows hardships. God restores what the hardship ruined.

You have allowed me to suffer much hardship, but you will restore me to life again and lift me up from the depths of the earth.
Psalm 71:20

Live my life to exemplify Christ.

PS…

Of interest in this psalm are the many references and allusions to other psalms.

• Psalm 71:1-3 is quoted almost exactly from Psalm 31:1-3.
• The thoughts of Psalm 71:5 seem to be suggested by Psalm 22:9-11.
• Do not be far from me (Psalm 71:12a) echoes Psalm 22:11.
• My God, make haste to help me! (Psalm 71:12b) takes the thought of Psalm 70:1.
• Psalm 71:13 is similar to Psalm 35:26.
• Psalm 71:18 carries the thoughts of Psalm 22:22 and 22:30-31.
• Psalm 71:19 uses the phrasing of Exodus 15:11.

Enduringword Psalm 71

‍