Rising from the Depths: God's Promise to Quicken You Again

Have you ever been in a season so dark, so overwhelming, that you felt you were truly living in the “depths of the earth”? Perhaps it was a long illness, a sudden grief, or a spiritual dryness that seemed to swallow all hope. When we find ourselves in that deep pit, it can feel like God has forgotten us, or worse, abandoned us entirely.

The psalmist, likely King David in his later years, knew this feeling intimately. Facing enemies and the decline of his own strength, he composed a profound declaration of faith that acknowledges the reality of suffering while clinging fiercely to the promise of restoration. He proclaims: “[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.” (Psalms 71:20)

Notice the incredible sovereignty embedded in this confession. The psalmist doesn't accuse God, but recognizes that God “hast shewed” him these troubles. This is a mature faith that understands that nothing—not even our deepest pain—is outside the sovereign knowledge or permission of the Almighty. But this acknowledgment of God’s control over suffering becomes the very foundation for his hope in deliverance.

The core of the promise lies in the word “quicken.” The Hebrew word, châyâh, means to revive, to restore life, or to bring vitality where life has been lost. The psalmist is utterly confident that the same God who allowed him to descend into the lowest points—the metaphorical “depths of the earth” (tᵉhôwm)—is the only one powerful enough to bring him up again. This is not merely a request for relief; it is a declaration of guaranteed revival. It is the assurance that even when we feel buried, God is preparing a resurrection.

This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who experienced the ultimate depths of the grave, only to be quickened by the Father’s power (Romans 8:11). Because He lives, we, too, are guaranteed a spiritual and future quickening. If you feel buried today, remember that the Lord specializes in bringing life out of the impossible. He has the power to pull you up, dust you off, and restore your joy, strength, and purpose.

Application

Identify the “depths” you are currently facing—grief, financial ruin, broken relationship, or burnout. Instead of dwelling on the darkness, use the psalmist’s words as a prayer. Acknowledge God’s hand in your life, even in the pain, and declare your certainty that He will bring you up again. Trust that your present affliction is merely the backdrop against which God’s glorious power to restore will be displayed.

Reflection Question

What specific area of your life needs God’s reviving touch (quicken) today, and how can you pray Psalm 71:20 over that situation?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, You are sovereign over all my circumstances, both the joys and the great and sore troubles. I confess that I feel low, but I will not lose heart. I cling to Your promise: quicken me again! Bring me up from these depths and restore my soul, that I may testify to Your unwavering faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.