Psalm 71:20-21(KJV)

Historical Context

Psalm 71 has no superscription naming its author or describing its occasion, so its authorship and date are uncertain. Its language and themes resemble other psalms, especially Psalm 31, and it may draw on familiar words of Israel’s worship. The speaker describes a life marked by dependence on God from youth and asks not to be forsaken in old age (verses 5, 9, 17–18). This suggests the perspective of an older person reflecting on a long history of danger and deliverance, though the poem does not identify a particular crisis. In Israel’s poetic language, overwhelming trouble could be pictured as deep waters or the depths of the earth, images of danger, helplessness, and even nearness to death. The psalm joins honest lament with public testimony: the speaker remembers God’s past care and trusts that God can restore him again. The promise of comfort “on every side” expresses comprehensive care, not necessarily freedom from hardship. These verses belong to a prayer that moves from remembered distress toward renewed praise and hope.

Language Notes

The Hebrew verb behind “quicken” is from chayah, meaning “to live” or “to keep alive.” Here, “quicken me again” conveys renewed life or restoration, not merely a brief emotional lift. The phrase translated “the depths of the earth” uses tehomot, “depths,” a word that can evoke the deep waters or a place of utter peril. In this poetic setting, it need not describe a literal journey beneath the earth; it intensifies the image of being brought back from extreme danger, perhaps near death. “Increase my greatness” uses a form of gadal, “to become great” or “to make great.” The thought is that God will restore the speaker’s standing and strength, while the following promise of comfort emphasizes God’s sustaining presence.

Cross-References

• Psalm 30:3
• Isaiah 26:19
• 2 Corinthians 4:8

Application

Take ten minutes today to name one hardship honestly in a journal, then write beside it one specific way God has sustained you in the past. This practice does not minimize pain or require you to pretend that everything is resolved; it gives both trouble and remembered faithfulness a place before God. Pray the words of Psalm 71:20–21, asking for renewed strength and comfort, and identify one small next step you can take—such as contacting a trusted friend, resting, or seeking practical help. If someone you know is struggling, listen without rushing to explain their suffering, and offer a concrete form of support. The psalm invites patient hope: God’s care can meet us even when circumstances remain difficult.