Finding Refuge in God: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Psalm 71

✨ Executive Summary

Psalm 71, a powerful testament to unwavering faith, serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating life’s turbulent waters. This Psalm, likely penned by David in his later years, expresses a profound reliance on God as a steadfast refuge, a shield against adversity, and a source of enduring strength. Through heartfelt supplication and unwavering trust, the Psalmist implores God’s continued protection and guidance, reflecting a deep-seated conviction that even in the face of old age and diminishing strength, divine faithfulness remains unyielding. This commentary explores the rich tapestry of Psalm 71, uncovering its timeless wisdom, connecting it to Coptic Orthodox teachings, and offering practical applications for finding refuge in God amidst the challenges of modern life. Finding refuge in God is not merely a passive act, but an active engagement with divine grace and a resolute commitment to His unwavering love.

Introduction: As the sands of time relentlessly shift, and the vitality of youth fades into the wisdom of age, the human heart often yearns for a constant, unwavering anchor. Psalm 71 echoes this universal sentiment, offering a powerful testament to the unwavering fidelity of God. This Psalm, a poignant prayer of supplication and unwavering trust, provides a timeless roadmap for navigating life’s inevitable storms and finding solace in the embrace of the Divine.

Commentary on Psalm 71: A Verse-by-Verse Exploration

Verse 1: In You, O Lord, I Put My Trust; Let Me Never Be Ashamed.

KJV: In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion.

NKJV: In You, O LORD, I put my trust; Let me never be ashamed.

This opening verse sets the tone for the entire Psalm. It’s a declaration of absolute reliance on God. The phrase “Let me never be ashamed” reflects a deep fear of being abandoned or disappointed by God. Shame, in this context, is not just personal embarrassment, but a profound sense of spiritual defeat and disillusionment. The Psalmist seeks the assurance that his faith will not be in vain. In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, we understand this as a plea for God’s grace to persevere, to remain steadfast in faith even when faced with trials. St. Athanasius says, “Ἡ γὰρ ἐλπὶς εἰς Θεὸν οὐ καταισχύνει” (For hope in God does not disappoint – Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*, PG 25:192). This means, to find real freedom to create websites & landing pages, find freedom in Christ first.

Spiritual Application: In our daily lives, we often place our trust in fleeting things like wealth, power, or human relationships. This verse reminds us that true security and lasting peace are found only in God. When we face moments of doubt or fear, we can echo the Psalmist’s words, reaffirming our trust in God’s unwavering love and protection.

Verse 2: Deliver Me in Your Righteousness, and Cause Me to Escape; Incline Your Ear to Me, and Save Me.

KJV: Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me.

NKJV: Deliver me in Your righteousness, and cause me to escape; Incline Your ear to me, and save me.

Here, the Psalmist implores God for deliverance based on His righteousness. It’s not a claim of personal merit but a plea grounded in God’s inherent justice and faithfulness to His promises. “Incline Your ear to me” speaks to the intimacy of prayer, the belief that God hears and responds to the cries of His people. This echoes the Coptic understanding of the Theotokos, whose intercession is powerful because she has favor with the Lord. St. Cyril of Alexandria writes, “Τὴν Μητέρα τοῦ Θεοῦ παρακαλοῦμεν ὡς ἐχούσαν παρρησίαν πρὸς τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτῆς καὶ Θεὸν ἡμῶν” (We entreat the Mother of God as one having boldness towards her Son and our God – Cyril of Alexandria, *Homiliae Diversae*, PG 77:1076). Deliverance is also about spiritual escape; escaping the clutches of sin and evil temptations that surround us.

Spiritual Application: When we are trapped in difficult situations, we can turn to God in prayer, appealing to His righteousness and seeking His deliverance. Remember that God’s salvation is not just physical, but also spiritual, offering us freedom from the bondage of sin and the power of darkness.

Verse 3: Be My Strong Refuge, to Which I May Resort Continually; You Have Given the Command to Save Me, For You Are My Rock and My Fortress.

KJV: Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.

NKJV: Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually; You have given the command to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress.

The Psalmist uses powerful metaphors to describe God: “Strong Refuge,” “Rock,” and “Fortress.” These images evoke a sense of security, stability, and protection. The phrase “to which I may resort continually” emphasizes the constant availability of God’s presence and help. God is not a fair-weather friend but a steadfast companion in all seasons of life. The “command to save me” highlights God’s initiative in salvation; He has already purposed to redeem His people. The rock and fortress are symbols of strength, immovability, and secure shelter. These images evoke the geographical context of ancient Israel, where rocky terrain and fortified cities provided protection from enemies. In the Coptic tradition, we often refer to God as “Abba,” a term of intimacy and endearment, reflecting this close, personal relationship. Just as a physical fortress protects from external threats, God safeguards us from spiritual dangers.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a habit of continually turning to God as your refuge. In moments of stress, anxiety, or temptation, consciously choose to seek His presence and find solace in His unwavering love. Remember that God is not far off but intimately involved in your life, ready to be your rock and fortress.

Verse 4: Deliver Me, O My God, Out of the Hand of the Wicked, Out of the Hand of the Ungodly and Cruel Man.

KJV: Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man.

NKJV: Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man.

This verse intensifies the plea for deliverance, specifically mentioning the “wicked,” “ungodly,” and “cruel” individuals who pose a threat to the Psalmist. This highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and the presence of evil in the world. In the Coptic Orthodox Church, we understand that the devil and his demons are constantly seeking to harm and deceive us. We combat these forces through prayer, fasting, and the sacraments. We pray for deliverance, knowing that God’s power is greater than any evil force. The “hand” signifies power and control. The Psalmist acknowledges that he is powerless against those who seek to harm him, hence his fervent appeal to God.

Spiritual Application: Be aware of the spiritual battles that rage around you. Identify the “wicked” influences in your life – negative thoughts, harmful habits, or toxic relationships – and actively seek God’s deliverance from their power. Remember that you are not alone in this fight; God is your ally, and He will equip you with the strength to overcome evil.

Verse 5: For You Are My Hope, O Lord God; You Are My Trust from My Youth.

KJV: For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth.

NKJV: For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You are my trust from my youth.

This verse provides a reason for the Psalmist’s unwavering confidence. God has been his hope and trust since his youth. This speaks to the importance of early spiritual formation and the enduring impact of a childhood relationship with God. The Psalmist’s declaration is not merely intellectual assent, but a deeply personal and experiential knowledge of God’s faithfulness. This resonates with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on the importance of childhood education within the church. A strong foundation in faith during formative years provides an anchor that remains steady throughout life’s journey. We see this in the lives of many saints, whose devotion to God began in their childhood.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on your own spiritual journey and identify the moments when God has proven Himself faithful to you. Cultivate a habit of gratitude for God’s past faithfulness, knowing that He will continue to be your hope and trust in the future. If you have children or influence young people, prioritize their spiritual formation, laying a foundation of faith that will sustain them throughout their lives.

Verse 6: By You I Have Been Upheld from Birth; You Are He Who Took Me Out of My Mother’s Womb. My Praise Shall Be Continually of You.

KJV: By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother’s bowels: my praise shall be continually of thee.

NKJV: By You I have been upheld from birth; You are He who took me out of my mother’s womb. My praise shall be continually of You.

This verse emphasizes God’s sovereignty over every aspect of human life, from conception to birth. The Psalmist recognizes that his very existence is a gift from God, and He is responsible for sustaining him throughout his life. “Took me out of my mother’s womb” speaks to God’s proactive care from the very beginning of life. This resonates deeply with the Coptic Orthodox Church’s strong stance on the sanctity of life, recognizing the inherent value and dignity of every human being from conception. The phrase “My praise shall be continually of You” expresses a commitment to lifelong worship and gratitude. Praising God becomes a natural response to recognizing His sovereignty and faithfulness. This echoes the daily hymns and praises offered in Coptic Orthodox churches, reflecting a continuous devotion to God.

Spiritual Application: Recognize God’s sovereignty over your life, from the moment of conception to the present day. Cultivate a spirit of gratitude for all that He has done for you, and commit to offering Him continual praise in your thoughts, words, and actions.

Verse 7: I Have Become as a Wonder to Many, But You Are My Strong Refuge.

KJV: I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge.

NKJV: I have become as a wonder to many, But You are my strong refuge.

This verse acknowledges that the Psalmist’s life has become an object of curiosity or amazement to others. Perhaps due to his age, his circumstances, or his unwavering faith, he stands out. However, amidst this public attention, he finds his true refuge in God. “Wonder” can be interpreted in different ways – as a sign of admiration, envy, or even ridicule. Regardless of the specific interpretation, the Psalmist’s focus remains firmly fixed on God. The statement “But You are my strong refuge” provides a powerful contrast. While others may focus on external circumstances, the Psalmist finds his security and stability in his relationship with God. In the face of external scrutiny, he remains grounded in his faith. This also could mean the Psalmist’s perseverance and unwavering faith in the face of adversity is a testament to the transformative power of God in his life.

Spiritual Application: Be aware that your life, as a follower of Christ, may be a “wonder” to others. Some may admire your faith, while others may criticize or misunderstand it. Regardless of their reactions, remain steadfast in your trust in God, allowing Him to be your strong refuge in the midst of external pressures and opinions. Let your life be a testament to the transformative power of God.

Verse 8: Let My Mouth Be Filled with Your Praise and with Your Glory All the Day.

KJV: Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day.

NKJV: Let my mouth be filled with Your praise and with Your glory all the day.

The Psalmist expresses a deep longing for constant praise of God. This is not merely lip service, but a genuine desire to honor God with every word that comes from his mouth. “Filled with Your praise” implies an overflowing of gratitude and adoration. The Psalmist wants his words to be saturated with expressions of love and reverence for God. This echoes the Coptic Orthodox tradition of continuous prayer, where we strive to keep God present in our thoughts and words throughout the day. This is a call to transform ordinary conversation into opportunities for glorifying God. Even simple acts like offering thanks for a meal or expressing gratitude for a blessing can become acts of praise. He wants every day to be filled with praise. This suggests a commitment to a lifestyle of worship, where praise is not confined to specific times or places but permeates every aspect of life.

Spiritual Application: Strive to cultivate a habit of praising God throughout the day. Be intentional about expressing your gratitude for His blessings, both big and small. Let your words be a reflection of your love and reverence for Him. Turn everyday conversations into opportunities for glorifying God. Consider memorizing scripture verses that praise God and reciting them throughout the day. Try to find opportunities to verbally praise and thank God in every situation.

Verse 9: Do Not Cast Me Off in the Time of Old Age; Do Not Forsake Me When My Strength Fails.

KJV: Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth.

NKJV: Do not cast me off in the time of old age; Do not forsake me When my strength fails.

This verse reflects a deep concern about the vulnerability that comes with old age. The Psalmist recognizes that as his physical strength declines, he becomes more dependent on God’s support. The phrase “Do not cast me off” expresses a fear of abandonment and rejection. The Psalmist pleads with God not to abandon him in his hour of need. The concept of God’s unwavering faithfulness is central to Coptic Orthodox theology. We believe that God’s love and mercy endure forever. St. Paul writes in Romans 8:38-39, “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Spiritual Application: Acknowledge the reality of aging and the challenges it may bring. Entrust your future to God, knowing that He will never abandon you, even in the midst of weakness and vulnerability. Remember that your value and worth are not diminished by age but are rooted in your identity as a child of God. Support and care for the elderly members of your community, reflecting God’s love and compassion.

Verse 10: For My Enemies Speak Against Me; And Those Who Lie in Wait for My Life Take Counsel Together,

KJV: For mine enemies speak against me; and they that lay wait for my soul take counsel together,

NKJV: For my enemies speak against me; And those who lie in wait for my life take counsel together,

The Psalmist acknowledges the presence of enemies who seek to harm him. These enemies not only speak against him but also actively plot to take his life. “Speak against me” suggests slander, false accusations, and attempts to damage his reputation. The Psalmist is facing not only physical threats but also verbal attacks. The phrase “lie in wait for my life” indicates a deliberate and malicious intent to kill him. These enemies are not simply casual adversaries but are actively plotting his demise. The Coptic Orthodox Church recognizes the reality of spiritual warfare. We believe that the devil and his demons are constantly seeking to tempt, deceive, and destroy us. These enemies can manifest in various forms, including negative thoughts, harmful relationships, and worldly temptations. Just as the Psalmist faced external enemies, we too must be vigilant against the internal and external forces that seek to harm our souls.

Spiritual Application: Be aware of the presence of enemies, both visible and invisible, who seek to harm you. Protect yourself from slander and false accusations by living a life of integrity and truth. Guard yourself against harmful influences and relationships that seek to undermine your faith. Pray for the strength to resist temptation and to overcome the attacks of the enemy.

Verse 11: Saying, “God Has Forsaken Him; Pursue and Take Him, For There Is None to Deliver Him.”

KJV: Saying, God hath forsaken him: persecute and take him; for there is none to deliver him.

NKJV: Saying, “God has forsaken him; Pursue and take him, for there is none to deliver him.”

This verse reveals the malicious intentions of the Psalmist’s enemies. They falsely claim that God has abandoned him and encourage others to pursue and capture him, believing that he is without hope of rescue. “God has forsaken him” is a deliberate attempt to undermine the Psalmist’s faith and confidence. They are trying to convince him and others that God has abandoned him and is no longer protecting him. This is a common tactic used by the enemy to discourage and demoralize believers. The phrase “Pursue and take him” reveals the ruthlessness of his enemies. They are determined to capture and harm him, believing that he is vulnerable and defenseless. The false assurance that “there is none to deliver him” highlights their arrogance and their lack of understanding of God’s power and faithfulness. They believe that the Psalmist is completely isolated and without hope of rescue.

Spiritual Application: Be aware that the enemy may try to convince you that God has abandoned you, especially during times of difficulty and suffering. Resist these lies by clinging to the truth of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. Remember that even when you feel alone and vulnerable, God is always with you, ready to deliver you from your enemies. Seek support from your church community and trusted friends, who can help you to remember God’s promises and to resist the lies of the enemy. Claim God’s promises of protection and deliverance found in scripture. Repeat these verses to remind yourself that God will never abandon you.

Verse 12: O God, Do Not Be Far from Me; O My God, Make Haste to Help Me!

KJV: O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste to help me.

NKJV: O God, do not be far from me; O my God, make haste to help me!

This verse is a heartfelt plea for God’s immediate presence and assistance. The Psalmist recognizes his vulnerability and cries out for God to intervene in his situation. “O God, do not be far from me” expresses a deep longing for God’s nearness and companionship. The Psalmist feels vulnerable and alone and pleads with God not to abandon him. The phrase “O my God, make haste to help me!” is a desperate cry for immediate assistance. The Psalmist recognizes that his situation is urgent and pleads with God to intervene quickly. The use of the term “my God” reveals a personal and intimate relationship with God. The Psalmist is not simply addressing a distant deity but is appealing to the God whom he knows and loves.

Spiritual Application: When you face difficult situations, do not hesitate to cry out to God for help. Be specific in your prayers, expressing your needs and desires clearly and honestly. Remember that God is not distant or uncaring but is intimately involved in your life and desires to help you. Trust in God’s timing, knowing that He will respond to your prayers according to His perfect will.

Verse 13: Let Them Be Confounded and Consumed Who Are Adversaries of My Life; Let Them Be Covered with Reproach and Dishonor Who Seek My Hurt.

KJV: Let them be confounded and consumed that are adversaries to my soul; let them be covered with reproach and dishonour that seek my hurt.

NKJV: Let them be confounded and consumed Who are adversaries of my life; Let them be covered with reproach and dishonor Who seek my hurt.

This verse is a petition for God to deal justly with the Psalmist’s enemies. It is not a call for personal revenge, but a plea for God to vindicate the righteous and to punish the wicked. “Let them be confounded and consumed” is a request for God to bring confusion and destruction upon those who oppose the Psalmist. It is a plea for God to thwart their plans and to render them powerless. The phrase “Let them be covered with reproach and dishonor” is a request for God to shame and humiliate those who seek to harm the Psalmist. It is a plea for God to expose their wickedness and to bring them into disrepute. While this may seem harsh, in the context of the Old Testament, this is a plea for divine justice and for the protection of the righteous.

Spiritual Application: While we are not called to seek personal revenge, we can pray for God to deal justly with those who harm us or others. Trust in God’s justice, knowing that He will ultimately vindicate the righteous and punish the wicked. Focus on forgiving those who have wronged you, allowing God to heal your heart and to release any bitterness or resentment.

Verse 14: But I Will Hope Continually, And Will Praise You Yet More and More.

KJV: But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more.

NKJV: But I will hope continually, And will praise You yet more and more.

This verse expresses the Psalmist’s unwavering commitment to hope and praise, even in the face of adversity. It is a declaration of his determination to maintain a positive attitude and to trust in God’s goodness, regardless of his circumstances. “But I will hope continually” is a statement of resolute faith. The Psalmist chooses to hope in God, even when things look bleak. This is not a passive hope but an active trust in God’s promises and power. The phrase “And will praise You yet more and more” expresses a commitment to increasing praise. The Psalmist desires to not only maintain his praise of God but to deepen and expand it. This is a call to grow in our appreciation of God’s goodness and to express our gratitude more fully.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a habit of continual hope and praise. Choose to focus on God’s goodness, even when you face difficult circumstances. Express your gratitude to God regularly, both in your thoughts and in your words. Remember that hope and praise are powerful weapons against despair and discouragement.

Verse 15: My Mouth Shall Tell of Your Righteousness And Your Salvation All the Day, For I Do Not Know Their Limits.

KJV: My mouth shall shew forth thy righteousness and thy salvation all the day; for I know not the numbers thereof.

NKJV: My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness And Your salvation all the day, For I do not know their limits.

This verse emphasizes the Psalmist’s commitment to proclaiming God’s righteousness and salvation. He desires to share the good news of God’s grace with others and to testify to the transformative power of His love. “My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness And Your salvation all the day” is a declaration of evangelistic zeal. The Psalmist is determined to share the message of God’s righteousness and salvation with everyone he meets. This is a call to be witnesses for Christ, sharing our faith with others through our words and actions. The phrase “For I do not know their limits” suggests that God’s righteousness and salvation are boundless and inexhaustible. The Psalmist recognizes that he can never fully comprehend the depths of God’s grace and mercy. In the Coptic Orthodox Church, we emphasize the importance of sharing our faith with others through our words and actions. We believe that we are called to be witnesses for Christ, proclaiming the good news of salvation to all who will listen.

Spiritual Application: Be prepared to share your faith with others, testifying to the transformative power of God’s love in your life. Look for opportunities to proclaim God’s righteousness and salvation through your words and actions. Remember that God’s grace is boundless and that He desires for all people to come to know Him.

Verse 16: I Will Go in the Strength of the Lord God; I Will Make Mention of Your Righteousness, of Yours Only.

KJV: I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.

NKJV: I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD; I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only.

The Psalmist declares his intention to rely on God’s strength and to proclaim His righteousness. He recognizes that his own strength is insufficient and that he must depend on God’s power to accomplish His purposes. “I will go in the strength of the Lord God” is a statement of dependence on divine power. The Psalmist acknowledges that he cannot accomplish anything of lasting value in his own strength and that he must rely on God’s power to guide and sustain him. The phrase “I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only” emphasizes the Psalmist’s focus on God’s righteousness, not his own. He recognizes that salvation comes through God’s grace, not through human merit.

Spiritual Application: Acknowledge your dependence on God’s strength in all that you do. Do not rely on your own abilities or resources but trust in God’s power to guide and sustain you. Proclaim God’s righteousness, recognizing that salvation comes through His grace, not through human merit.

Verse 17: O God, You Have Taught Me from My Youth; And to This Day I Declare Your Wondrous Works.

KJV: O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.

NKJV: O God, You have taught me from my youth; And to this day I declare Your wondrous works.

The Psalmist reflects on God’s faithfulness in teaching him from his youth and declares his continued commitment to proclaiming God’s wondrous works. “O God, You have taught me from my youth” expresses gratitude for early spiritual formation. The Psalmist recognizes that God has been guiding and teaching him since his youth, laying a foundation of faith that has sustained him throughout his life. The phrase “And to this day I declare Your wondrous works” demonstrates a continued commitment to sharing God’s goodness. The Psalmist has not ceased to proclaim God’s wondrous works but continues to testify to His power and faithfulness throughout his life. In the Coptic Orthodox Church, we emphasize the importance of passing on the faith from one generation to the next. We believe that parents and grandparents have a responsibility to teach their children and grandchildren about God and to instill in them a love for the Church and its traditions.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on the ways that God has taught you throughout your life. Express gratitude for the spiritual formation you have received from parents, teachers, and mentors. Commit to sharing your faith with others, declaring God’s wondrous works to those around you.

Verse 18: Now Also When I Am Old and Grayheaded, O God, Do Not Forsake Me, Until I Declare Your Strength to This Generation, Your Power to Everyone Who Is to Come.

KJV: Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.

NKJV: Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come.

The Psalmist, now advanced in years, reiterates his plea for God’s continued presence and requests the strength to continue proclaiming God’s power and faithfulness to future generations. “Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, do not forsake me” expresses a continuing dependence on God in old age. The Psalmist recognizes that his need for God’s presence and support does not diminish with age but rather increases. The phrase “Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come” reveals a desire to leave a lasting legacy of faith. The Psalmist wants to ensure that future generations know about God’s power and faithfulness.

Spiritual Application: Entrust your old age to God, knowing that He will never forsake you. Seek opportunities to share your wisdom and experience with younger generations, passing on the legacy of faith to those who will come after you. Remember that your life can be a testament to God’s power and faithfulness, even in your later years.

Verse 19: Also Your Righteousness, O God, Is Very High, You Who Have Done Great Things; O God, Who Is Like You?

KJV: Thy righteousness also, O God, is very high, who hast done great things: O God, who is like unto thee!

NKJV: Also Your righteousness, O God, is very high, You who have done great things; O God, who is like You?

The Psalmist extols God’s righteousness and acknowledges His great deeds, declaring His incomparable nature. “Also Your righteousness, O God, is very high” emphasizes the transcendence of God’s righteousness. The Psalmist recognizes that God’s righteousness is far beyond human comprehension and is a standard of perfection that we can never attain on our own. The phrase “You who have done great things” expresses gratitude for God’s mighty acts. The Psalmist recalls God’s wondrous deeds throughout history and recognizes His power to accomplish the impossible. The question “O God, who is like You?” is a rhetorical expression of God’s uniqueness. The Psalmist recognizes that there is no one like God and that He is in a class all His own. This verse speaks to the Coptic Orthodox understanding of God’s transcendence and immanence. We believe that God is both beyond our comprehension and intimately involved in our lives.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on God’s righteousness and His great deeds. Acknowledge His transcendence and His incomparable nature. Express gratitude for His mighty acts in your life and in the world.

Verse 20: You, Who Have Shown Me Great and Severe Troubles, Shall Revive Me Again, And Bring Me Up Again from the Depths of the Earth.

KJV: Thou, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth.

NKJV: You, who have shown me great and severe troubles, Shall revive me again, And bring me up again from the depths of the earth.

The Psalmist acknowledges that God has allowed him to experience great trials and tribulations, but he expresses his unwavering faith that God will ultimately revive him and restore him from the depths of despair. “You, who have shown me great and severe troubles” acknowledges God’s sovereignty over suffering. The Psalmist recognizes that God is ultimately in control, even when he experiences difficult circumstances. The phrase “Shall revive me again, And bring me up again from the depths of the earth” expresses hope for resurrection and restoration. The Psalmist believes that God will ultimately restore him from his suffering and bring him back to life, both physically and spiritually.

Spiritual Application: Remember that God is with you even in the midst of your suffering. Trust in His promise to revive you and to restore you from the depths of despair. Allow your trials to strengthen your faith and to deepen your relationship with God. Meditate on the hope of resurrection and the promise of eternal life.

Verse 21: You Shall Increase My Greatness, And Comfort Me on Every Side.

KJV: Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side.

NKJV: You shall increase my greatness, And comfort me on every side.

The Psalmist expresses his confidence that God will not only restore him but also increase his greatness and comfort him on every side. “You shall increase my greatness” expresses hope for future blessings. The Psalmist believes that God will not only restore him from his current suffering but will also elevate him to a position of greater honor and influence. The phrase “And comfort me on every side” signifies comprehensive and complete consolation. The Psalmist believes that God will not only provide him with physical comfort but also with emotional, spiritual, and relational comfort. This echoes the Coptic Orthodox understanding of God’s love as all-encompassing and transformative. We believe that God desires to bless us abundantly and to fill our lives with His peace and joy.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s promise to bless you abundantly and to comfort you on every side. Seek God’s guidance and direction in your life, knowing that He desires to increase your greatness and to use you for His glory. Allow God’s love to fill your heart and to overflow to others, bringing comfort and encouragement to those around you.

Verse 22: Also with the lute I will praise You, And Your faithfulness, O My God! To You I will sing with the harp, O Holy One of Israel.

KJV: I will also praise thee with the psaltery, even thy truth, O my God: unto thee will I sing with the harp, O thou Holy One of Israel.

NKJV: Also with the lute I will praise You, And Your faithfulness, O My God! To You I will sing with the harp, O Holy One of Israel.

The Psalmist expresses his intention to praise God with musical instruments, acknowledging His faithfulness and holiness. “Also with the lute I will praise You, And Your faithfulness, O My God!” signifies a commitment to worship through music. The Psalmist intends to use musical instruments to express his gratitude and adoration to God. The phrase “To You I will sing with the harp, O Holy One of Israel” highlights the holiness and uniqueness of God. The Psalmist recognizes that God is the Holy One of Israel and that He is worthy of all praise and worship.

Spiritual Application: Express your love and gratitude to God through music. Use your talents and abilities to worship Him and to uplift others. Remember that God is holy and that He is worthy of all praise and adoration.

Verse 23: My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing to You, And my soul, which You have redeemed.

KJV: My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my soul, which thou hast redeemed.

NKJV: My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing to You, And my soul, which You have redeemed.

The Psalmist anticipates the joy and delight he will experience as he sings praises to God, acknowledging that his soul has been redeemed by Him. “My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing to You” expresses the joy of worship. The Psalmist anticipates experiencing great joy as he sings praises to God. This is not merely a duty but a genuine expression of love and adoration. The phrase “And my soul, which You have redeemed” highlights the transformative power of God’s grace. The Psalmist recognizes that his soul has been redeemed by God, set free from sin and death.

Spiritual Application: Engage in worship with