711 O Lord, I have come to you for protection; don't let me be disgraced. 2 Save me and rescue me, for you do what is right. Turn your ear to listen to me, and set me free. 3 Be my rock of safety where I can always hide. Give the order to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. 4 My God, rescue me from the power of the wicked, from the clutches of cruel oppressors. 5 OÂ Lord, you alone are my hope. I've trusted you, O Lord, from childhood. 6 Yes, you have been with me from birth; from my mother's womb you have cared for me. No wonder I am always praising you! 7 My life is an example to many, because you have been my strength and protection. 8 That is why I can never stop praising you; I declare your glory all day long. 9 And now, in my old age, don't set me aside. Don't abandon me when my strength is failing. 10 For my enemies are whispering against me. They are plotting together to kill me. 11 They say, "God has abandoned him. Let's go and get him, for no one will help him now." 12 OÂ God, don't stay away. My God, please hurry to help me. 13 Bring disgrace and destruction on my accusers. Humiliate and shame those who want to harm me.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Psalm 71:1-13
Commentary on Psalm 71:1-13
(Read Psalm 71:1-13)
David prays that he might never be made ashamed of dependence upon God. With this petition every true believer may come boldly to the throne of grace. The gracious care of Divine providence in our birth and infancy, should engage us to early piety. He that was our Help from our birth, ought to be our Hope from our youth. Let none expect ease or comfort from the world. Those who love the Lord, often are hated and persecuted; men wondered at for their principles and conduct; but the Lord has been their strong refuge. The faithful servants of God may be assured that he will not cast them off in old age, nor forsake them when their strength fails.