Psalms 71:7

KJV

I am as a wonder unto many; but thou [art] my strong refuge.

KJV (with Strong's)

I am as a wonder {H4159} unto many {H7227}; but thou art my strong {H5797} refuge {H4268}.

Complete Jewish Bible

To many, I am an amazing example; but you are strong protection for me.

Berean Standard Bible

I have become a portent to many, but You are my strong refuge.

American Standard Version

I am as a wonder unto many; But thou art my strong refuge.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 71:7 powerfully articulates the psalmist's profound experience of public vulnerability and scrutiny, contrasting it sharply with his unwavering and absolute trust in God as his unshakeable sanctuary. It captures the tension of feeling like a spectacle to human observers while simultaneously finding ultimate security and identity in the divine, highlighting how God remains a steadfast refuge even when one's circumstances invite public astonishment or questioning.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 71 is a deeply personal prayer, likely from an elderly individual, possibly David, who is facing significant adversity, including enemies and those who wish him ill. It stands as a testament to a lifelong relationship with God, recounting divine faithfulness from youth and pleading for continued deliverance in old age. The preceding verses establish this profound, enduring dependence, with the psalmist declaring, "For you are my hope, O Lord God; you are my trust from my youth. Upon you I have leaned from birth; you are he who took me from my mother's womb. My praise is continually of you" ([Psalms 71:5-6](/psalms/71-5 "Psalm 71:5-6 - Lifelong Trust in God")). Verse 7, therefore, emerges from this backdrop of lifelong reliance, introducing a specific challenge—how the psalmist is perceived by others—before immediately reasserting his ultimate source of security in God. The psalm continues to plead for God's presence and deliverance, emphasizing the psalmist's weakness and God's strength.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, suffering, especially in old age, was often interpreted as a sign of divine displeasure or a lack of favor, leading to public scrutiny and even scorn. To be "a wonder unto many" (Hebrew: *môpēth*) could imply being an object of astonishment, a spectacle, or even an ominous sign, which would have carried significant social stigma and emotional weight. People would observe the psalmist's trials and perhaps question his righteousness or God's justice. The concept of "refuge" (Hebrew: *maḥaseh*) was deeply rooted in the physical and political realities of the ancient world, where literal strongholds, fortresses, or cities of refuge offered protection from enemies or avengers. The psalmist's declaration that God is his "strong refuge" translates this tangible need for physical safety into a profound spiritual truth, asserting God's absolute capacity to protect and shelter him from all forms of harm and judgment, both physical and social.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within the Psalter and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Vulnerability and Public Scrutiny**, portraying the psalmist as exposed and observed, perhaps even mocked, due to his circumstances. This resonates with the experience of many biblical figures who faced public shame or misunderstanding, such as Job or Jeremiah. Secondly, it powerfully highlights the theme of **Divine Refuge and Strength**, presenting God as an impenetrable shelter and an unshakeable source of security, a concept frequently found in the Psalms, as seen in the declaration, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" ([Psalms 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")). Thirdly, and perhaps most profoundly, the verse articulates the **Contrast Between Human Perception and Divine Reality**. Despite how humans might view a person—as an object of wonder, pity, or scorn—the ultimate reality for the believer is that their true security, identity, and worth are found solely in God. This juxtaposition serves to affirm God's steadfastness over fleeting human judgment, a truth echoed throughout Scripture, for example, in God's promise to be with His people through trials ([Isaiah 43:2](/isaiah/43-2 "Isaiah 43:2 - God's Presence in Trials")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wonder (Hebrew, _môpēth'_):** This term carries a range of meanings, including a sign, omen, portent, or a miraculous demonstration. In the context of Psalms 71:7, it signifies that the psalmist has become an object of astonishment, an unusual sight, or even a negative example in the eyes of others due to his suffering. It suggests that his trials are so severe or unusual that they elicit public curiosity, questioning, or even a sense of foreboding, making him a spectacle. It implies that people are observing his plight and perhaps drawing conclusions about divine judgment or the absence of God's favor.
* **Refuge (Hebrew, _maḥaseh'_):** This word denotes a place of shelter, protection, or asylum. It conveys the idea of a safe haven where one can find security from danger, enemies, or distress. The addition of "strong" (implied by the context and often associated with this term in other passages) emphasizes the absolute and unshakeable nature of the protection God provides. It is not a temporary hiding place but an enduring, powerful, and impenetrable sanctuary, signifying God's complete reliability and sufficiency as a protector.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I am as a wonder unto many":** This clause reveals the psalmist's acute awareness of how he is perceived by others. His suffering, trials, or unique circumstances have made him conspicuous, an object of public observation and astonishment. This "wonder" is likely not positive admiration but rather a gaze of curiosity, perhaps mixed with pity, skepticism, or even disdain, as people observe his distress and perhaps question the nature of his relationship with God or the justice of his plight. It speaks to the deep vulnerability of feeling exposed and misunderstood in one's pain.
* **"but thou art my strong refuge.":** In stark and powerful contrast to the preceding clause, this declaration pivots immediately to the psalmist's ultimate source of security. Despite being an object of public scrutiny and potential scorn, his true and unshakeable reality is found in God. God is not merely a temporary shelter but a "strong refuge"—a steadfast, impenetrable, and unfailing sanctuary. This phrase expresses absolute trust and confidence in God's protective power, affirming that divine security transcends human judgment and external circumstances.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. Most prominent is **Contrast**, which is central to the verse's impact. The psalmist juxtaposes his public perception ("I am as a wonder unto many") with his private reality of divine protection ("but thou art my strong refuge"). This stark opposition highlights the disparity between human judgment and God's unwavering faithfulness. The phrase "strong refuge" functions as a **Metaphor**, portraying God not literally as a physical shelter but as an all-encompassing, secure, and impenetrable sanctuary for the psalmist's soul and life. This metaphorical language effectively communicates God's protective nature in a tangible way. Additionally, the phrase "unto many" could be seen as a form of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the widespread nature of the psalmist's perceived vulnerability and the intensity of the public gaze, thereby magnifying the relief and power of God's singular, unwavering protection.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 71:7 profoundly speaks to the theological truth of God's unwavering faithfulness and sovereignty, particularly in the face of human vulnerability and suffering. It asserts that true security and identity are not found in human approval or the absence of trials, but exclusively in God. The psalmist's experience of being a "wonder" to others—a potential object of curiosity, pity, or even scorn—highlights the often-misguided nature of human judgment, especially when confronted with suffering. Yet, in the midst of this public exposure, the declaration "but thou art my strong refuge" serves as a powerful affirmation of divine steadfastness. This verse reminds us that God remains our ultimate stronghold, an unshakeable fortress against all external pressures and internal anxieties, demonstrating His character as a reliable and ever-present help for those who trust in Him, regardless of their circumstances or how the world perceives them.

* [Proverbs 18:10](/proverbs/18-10 "The Name of the Lord is a Strong Tower")
* [Psalm 91:2](/psalms/91-2 "My Refuge and My Fortress")
* [Nahum 1:7](/nahum/1-7 "The Lord is a Stronghold in the Day of Trouble")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world that often judges by outward appearance, success, or freedom from struggle, Psalms 71:7 offers profound solace and a corrective perspective. When our lives, circumstances, or trials make us feel exposed, misunderstood, or even an object of curiosity or pity to others, this verse calls us to shift our gaze from human perception to divine reality. It reminds us that our true security, worth, and identity are not defined by how "many" see us, but by who God is to us—our "strong refuge." This means that even when our suffering is public, our peace can remain private and profound, rooted in God's unshakeable presence. It encourages us to embrace God as our ultimate sanctuary, a place where we are fully known, loved, and protected, regardless of external judgments or the severity of our trials. This deep trust allows us to persevere with dignity and hope, knowing that our ultimate safety is secured in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways have you felt like "a wonder unto many"—exposed, misunderstood, or judged—because of your circumstances or faith?**
* **How does the concept of God as your "strong refuge" provide comfort and security when you feel vulnerable or scrutinized?**
* **What practical steps can you take to shift your focus from human perception to God's steadfast protection in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**What does "I am as a wonder unto many" truly mean in the context of the psalmist's experience?**

Answer: This phrase means the psalmist felt like an object of public astonishment, curiosity, or even a spectacle due to his severe suffering or unusual circumstances. In ancient cultures, prolonged or intense suffering was often seen as a sign of divine disfavor, leading people to observe the afflicted with a mix of wonder, pity, or even judgment. The psalmist likely felt exposed and scrutinized, his trials making him conspicuous to a broad audience, perhaps leading them to question his righteousness or God's justice in his life. This feeling of being a "wonder" highlights his deep vulnerability and the social burden of his affliction.

**How can God be a "strong refuge" if the psalmist is still experiencing public suffering?**

Answer: The "strong refuge" God provides is not necessarily an immediate removal of all outward suffering or public scrutiny, but rather an internal, spiritual, and ultimate security that transcends external circumstances. It means that despite the public's gaze and the pain of his trials, the psalmist's core being, his hope, and his ultimate safety are anchored in God. God is his impenetrable sanctuary, protecting his spirit, preserving his faith, and ensuring his ultimate deliverance and vindication. This refuge is a source of strength and peace in the midst of the storm, rather than an assurance that the storm will immediately cease. It speaks to God's unwavering presence and protective power over the psalmist's soul, even when his body or reputation are under attack. This concept is beautifully echoed in the New Testament, where believers are promised peace in Christ even amidst tribulation ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Peace in Christ Amidst Tribulation")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 71:7 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the psalmist experienced being "a wonder unto many" due to his personal suffering and perceived vulnerability, Jesus became the ultimate "wonder" in His suffering, not for His own sin, but for the sins of the world. He was publicly exposed, scrutinized, mocked, and made a spectacle on the cross, fulfilling prophecies that spoke of His rejection and humiliation ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - He Was Despised and Rejected")). He was "despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief," becoming an object of astonishment and scorn to those who witnessed His crucifixion, a truly unprecedented "wonder" of divine love and human depravity. Yet, in that ultimate moment of public vulnerability and perceived weakness, Jesus's unwavering trust was in His Father, who was His "strong refuge." He committed His spirit into the Father's hands ([Luke 23:46](/luke/23-46 "Luke 23:46 - Jesus Commits His Spirit to the Father")), finding His ultimate security and vindication in God even in death. Through His perfect obedience and sacrificial death, Christ became *our* "strong refuge," the one in whom we can find shelter from the judgment of sin and the scrutiny of the world. Just as the psalmist found security in God amidst his trials, believers now find their ultimate refuge in Christ, who has overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Peace in Christ Amidst Tribulation")) and offers an eternal, unshakeable sanctuary for all who believe ([Hebrews 6:18](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18 - Hope as an Anchor for the Soul")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 8:18

Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me [are] for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.

1 Corinthians 4:9

For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.

Jeremiah 16:19

O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall come unto thee from the ends of the earth, and shall say, Surely our fathers have inherited lies, vanity, and [things] wherein [there is] no profit.

Acts 4:13

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

2 Corinthians 6:8

By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and [yet] true;

2 Corinthians 6:10

As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and [yet] possessing all things.

Psalms 62:7

In God [is] my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, [and] my refuge, [is] in God.