Psalms 71:14

Commentary on Psalms 71:14 (KJV)

Psalms 71:14 declares, "But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more." This powerful verse encapsulates a spirit of enduring faith and growing devotion, even in the face of adversity.

Context

Psalm 71 is a heartfelt prayer of an aged individual, likely David, who is facing significant challenges, possibly from enemies or the infirmities of old age. Throughout the psalm, the writer appeals to God for deliverance, protection, and vindication, recalling God's faithfulness from youth. The psalmist expresses deep trust in God as a refuge and stronghold, even as he feels vulnerable. Verse 14 stands as a resolute declaration of commitment to God, contrasting with any potential despair or weariness that might accompany such trials. It follows a plea for God's presence and help, demonstrating a proactive stance of faith despite the circumstances.

Key Themes

• Unwavering Hope: The phrase "I will hope continually" signifies a persistent, unceasing reliance on God's character and promises. It is not a fleeting emotion but a settled conviction that God is faithful and will act. This hope is an anchor for the soul, especially in times of trouble, reflecting the enduring trust seen in Hebrews 6:19.
• Growing Praise: "And will yet praise thee more and more" speaks to a dynamic and increasing expression of worship. It's not just a declaration of future praise, but an intention for that praise to intensify and expand over time. This suggests a deepening understanding of God's goodness and a desire to give Him ever-greater glory, regardless of the immediate situation. It emphasizes a progressive spiritual growth.
• Dependence on God: Both hope and praise are directed towards God, highlighting the psalmist's complete dependence on Him for strength, deliverance, and purpose. This verse is a testament to finding one's source of joy and security not in earthly circumstances, but in the eternal God.

Linguistic Insights

• "Hope" (Hebrew: יָחַל, yachal): This word implies not just a wish, but a patient, confident waiting and expectation. It suggests a strong, enduring trust in God's future action and provision.
• "Continually" (Hebrew: תָּמִיד, tamid): This adverb emphasizes persistence and constancy. It means "always" or "perpetually," underlining the unwavering nature of the psalmist's hope.
• "Praise" (Hebrew: הָלַל, halal): The root of "Hallelujah," this verb means to laud, to extol, to boast in, or to shine forth. It's an active, celebratory form of worship.
• "More and more" (Hebrew: עוֹד וָעוֹד, od va'od): This repetition emphasizes an increasing quantity or intensity. It conveys the idea of praise that is not static but grows in depth and frequency, reflecting a deepening relationship with God.

Practical Application

Psalms 71:14 offers a profound lesson for believers today. In a world full of uncertainties and personal struggles, this verse encourages us to cultivate a spirit of persistent hope and escalating praise.

• Persevere in Hope: Even when facing difficult circumstances, illness, or aging, we are called to place our hope not in fleeting earthly solutions but in the unchanging character of God. This echoes the sentiment found in Psalms 42:11, where the psalmist repeatedly asks, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God."
• Grow in Gratitude: The commitment to praise "more and more" challenges us to not just give thanks for what God has done, but to actively seek ways to deepen our worship and appreciation for Him daily. This can transform our perspective, enabling us to find reasons for praise even amidst trials, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
• Trust God Through All Stages of Life: This psalm, written from the perspective of an older person, reminds us that God is faithful through all seasons of life, from youth to old age. We can declare with confidence that God will carry us, just as Isaiah 46:4 promises, "And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you."

Ultimately, Psalms 71:14 serves as a powerful reminder that our faith journey is one of continual growth—in hope, in trust, and in the outpouring of praise to our faithful God.