“You who have made me see many troubles will revive me again; from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again.” – Psalms 71:20
Psalms 71:20 Meaning
This powerful verse from Psalms speaks of God’s promise to revive us during our most challenging times. The writer acknowledges the troubles and difficulties they have faced but expresses deep faith in God’s ability to bring them back to life and restore them. It isn’t just a statement of despair; it is a declaration of hope and reassurance in the Lord’s capacity to renew our spirits. Many of us can relate to the feeling of being overwhelmed by life’s trials, yet this passage offers us the warmth of God’s comforting presence.
Life is often filled with ups and downs. The troubles we face might be personal struggles, health issues, or emotional pain. However, Psalms 71:20 reminds us that we do not walk alone in these hardships. The presence of God is always there, and He has the power to bring us back, no matter how low we may feel. It encourages us to trust in Him as a source of hope and strength.
Psalms 71:20 Commentary and Explanation
As we reflect on the first part of the verse, “You who have made me see many troubles,” we notice the speaker’s acknowledgment of their suffering. This honesty is crucial for us to understand. God does not expect us to hide our struggles or pretend that everything is okay. Instead, we are invited to bring our pain to Him openly. This can be a challenge, especially in a world where we often feel pressured to appear strong and self-sufficient.
The second part of this verse speaks to a profound belief, “will revive me again.” This indicates a promise of renewal. The word “revive” implies that something that was once alive and full of potential has lost its vigor and needs refreshing. It resonates with anyone who feels worn out, defeated, or hopeless. When we feel that we have hit rock bottom, God promises revival. He can breathe new life into us. We often associate revival with spiritual renewal, but it can also extend to our physical and emotional well-being.
The phrase “from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again” is a metaphor. It emphasizes the idea of being pulled out of the deepest despair and darkness, much like someone being rescued from a pit. This imagery provides comfort—it assures us that no matter how deep our struggles are, God is capable of lifting us up. As we face trials, we must remember that there is always hope. God’s desire is for us to thrive, not merely survive.
In our modern lives, we may find ourselves in various situations that can feel overwhelming. For some of us, it could be the burdens of relationships, financial struggles, health issues, or the weight of expectations. Acknowledging these troubles is the first step, as the psalmist does. Next, we transition from despair to trust that our God will revive us. When we feel weak, it’s okay to lean on Him with the assurance that we’re never alone, and revival is possible.
Historical and Literary Context of Psalms 71:20
Psalms are part of the Scriptures often seen as songs, prayers, or hymns written to express worship and intimacy with God. Psalm 71 is attributed to an older individual, reflecting a lifetime of experiences. It suggests a lifetime of struggles and victories. This psalm is likely a plea for help while also serving as a reminder of God’s past goodness. The historical backdrop of the psalm hints at a time of exile or distress, typical for many psalmists as they sought refuge and renewal in God.
Understanding the literary context helps us grasp the heart of this message. The poetic structure conveys both lament and hope, blending sorrow with faith. The psalmist uses a vivid personal narrative to reflect broader themes—resilience amid hardship, God’s faithfulness through various life stages, and the promise of restoration. The overall tone might resonate with anyone at a difficult point in their life, making it relatable and powerful.
In the realm of literature, various styles are employed to express emotions, and Psalms skillfully includes metaphors, imagery, and repetition. The psalm’s emotional depth allows readers to feel a sense of connection to the author’s experience. We can find comfort in knowing that such feelings have been expressed throughout history, reminding us of the timeless nature of human suffering and the constant search for divine help.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Psalms 71:20
1. Acknowledgment of Troubles
This aspect shows bravery in admitting our struggles. We may feel the necessity to display strength, but there is immense power in recognizing that we struggle and that God can help us.
2. The Promise of Revival
Here, we focus on the assurance that God will breathe life back into our weary souls. This revival isn’t merely physical but extends to our spirit and emotions.
3. God’s Rescue
The final element emphasizes the divine promise to elevate us from the depths of our despair. It signifies that no matter how far we have fallen, God is always ready to help us rise again.
Embracing these core themes within Psalms 71:20 allows us to internalize the beauty, hope, and strength present in God’s word.
Theological Significance of Psalms 71:20
This verse is significant because it offers insight into God’s nature as a loving and restorative being. Theologically, we recognize God as our refuge and strength, one who revives us during our darkest hours. This speaks to the overarching narrative of the Bible—God is eternally committed to His creation, longing to restore and renew us. It connects to the larger message of salvation found throughout Scripture. Just as the psalmist calls for revival from despair, we can find revival for our souls through faith in Christ.
The act of revival represents grace—a gift we cannot earn, reflecting God’s mercy towards us. It tells us about redemption and restoration, not only from our troubles but also from sin and brokenness. The thought that God can bring us back no matter how far we have fallen helps us lead lives believing in second chances. This transformative experience embodies a profound element of renewal, as we are invited to come to God with all our troubles. We can find hope through faith in Jesus, who promises us eternal life and a relationship with the Father.
Additionally, the verse encourages a community approach. In our struggles, we should uplift one another, seeking to revive each other through love and support. This illustrates the importance of fellowship and encourages us to create an environment where individuals can share their burdens and seek restoration together.
Psalms 71:20 Cross-References and Related Verses
Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” – Matthew 16:24
This verse underscores the act of surrender as a central aspect of discipleship. Surrendering to Christ requires self-denial, an intentional choice to put aside our own desires, ambitions, and plans.
Taking up the cross symbolizes embracing the challenges and sacrifices that may come with following Jesus. This verse highlights that surrender is not passive but involves actively choosing to follow Christ, even when it requires personal sacrifice.
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
This verse echoes the promise of renewal found in Psalms 71:20. It reminds us that God renews our strength when we place our trust in Him, lifting us to new heights during our struggles.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
This verse emphasizes the transformative power of being in Christ. Through Him, we are given new life and a fresh start, similar to the revival mentioned in Psalms 71:20.
Practical Application of Psalms 71:20
1. Admitting Our Struggles
It is crucial that we learn to acknowledge when we are facing difficulties. Being honest about our feelings is the first step toward healing. God desires a relationship where we can come to Him without pretense.
2. Seeking God’s Help
When we feel overwhelmed, we should turn to God in prayer. Let us seek His presence, inviting Him into our darkest situations. He is ready to restore us.
3. Trusting in Revival
It is essential to trust God’s promise that He will revive us. Our faith should remain steadfast, even during times when change feels impossible. Believing in His capacity to bring new life helps us face each day with hope.
4. Supporting Each Other
We should encourage those around us to seek God’s renewal in their lives too. Let us be a source of strength and support for one another, sharing the light of hope in times of darkness.
5. Remembering His Past Faithfulness
Reflecting on how God has helped us in previous challenges can fortify our faith. When we see His hand at work in our lives, we can face new difficulties with confidence.
Reflection and Devotional Thought on Psalms 71:20
As we reflect on Psalms 71:20, we can find comfort and hope in the assurance that no matter our circumstances, God is ever-present, ready to lift us from our lows. This encourages us to deepen our relationship with Him, recognizing Him as our refuge and strength. In moments of darkness, we can remind ourselves of the times when He has brought us through hardships before. This act of remembering builds our faith and prepares us for the next season in our lives.
Let us take a moment to pause. We can sit in quiet reflection and ask ourselves, “What burdens am I carrying today? Have I brought them to God in prayer?” Now is an excellent time for prayer, inviting God into our struggles, and asking Him to revive our spirits. Taking this time to connect with Him allows us to experience the renewing strength He promises.
This verse is an invitation to bring our troubles into the light. It is a call to trust and believe that we will rise again, just as He has promised. We can rest in knowing that God is not just a distant figure; He desires to be involved in our lives, reviving us to reflect His glory.
Final Thoughts
Psalms 71:20 serves as a profound reminder of God’s unfailing presence and unwavering promises. It draws us into a closer relationship with Him, encouraging trust in His plans no matter the circumstances we face. We are challenged to boldly acknowledge our struggles while holding onto the promise of revival. God’s faithfulness and love remain constant, reminding us that we are never alone. As we share this message with others, we bring light to their struggles, creating a community filled with hope and renewal.
In exploring these themes, we encourage each other to seek God’s presence actively. If you would like to dive deeper into the Scriptures, consider checking out our discussions on Psalms 116:1-7 or Jeremiah 14:2. May God’s word continually renew our spirits and enrich our lives as we draw closer to Him.