9 Cast me not off H7993 in the time H6256 of old age; H2209 forsake H5800 me not when my strength H3581 faileth. H3615
10 For mine enemies H341 speak H559 against me; and they that lay wait H8104 for my soul H5315 take counsel H3289 together, H3162
11 Saying, H559 God H430 hath forsaken H5800 him: persecute H7291 and take H8610 him; for there is none to deliver H5337 him.
12 O God, H430 be not far H7368 from me: O my God, H430 make haste H2363 H2439 for my help. H5833
13 Let them be confounded H954 and consumed H3615 that are adversaries H7853 to my soul; H5315 let them be covered H5844 with reproach H2781 and dishonour H3639 that seek H1245 my hurt. H7451
Worthy.Bible » Commentaries » Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible » Commentary on Psalms 71
Commentary on Psalms 71 Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
PSALM 71
Ps 71:1-24. The Psalmist, probably in old age, appeals to God for help from his enemies, pleading his past favors, and stating his present need; and, in confidence of a hearing, he promises his grateful thanks and praise.
1-3. (Compare Ps 30:1-3).
3. given commandment—literally, "ordained," as in Ps 44:4; 68:28.
rock … fortress—(Ps 18:2).
4, 5. cruel man—corrupt and ill-natured—literally, "sour."
5. trust—place of trust.
6-9. His history from early infancy illustrated God's care, and his wonderful deliverances were at once occasions of praise and ground of confidence for the future.
my praise … of thee—literally, "in" or "by Thee" (Ps 22:25).
10, 11. The craft and malicious taunts of his enemies now led him to call for aid (compare the terms used, 2Sa 17:12; Ps 3:2; 7:2).
12. (Compare Ps 22:19; 40:4).
13. (Compare Ps 35:4; 40:14).
14-16. The ruin of his enemies, as illustrating God's faithfulness, is his deliverance, and a reason for future confidence.
15. for I know … thereof—innumerable, as he had not time to count them.
16. in the strength—or, relying on it.
thy righteousness—or, faithful performance of promises to the pious (Ps 7:17; 31:1).
17-21. Past experience again encourages.
taught me, &c.—by providential dealings.
19. is very high—distinguished (Ps 36:5; Isa 55:9).
20. depths of the earth—debased, low condition.
21. increase, &c.—that is, the great things done for me (Ps 71:19; compare Ps 40:5).
22-24. To the occasion of praise he now adds the promise to render it.
will … praise—literally, "will thank."
even thy truth—as to Thy truth or faithfulness.