Psalms 71:18
Now also when I am old and gray headed, O God, forsake me not: vntill I haue shewed thy strength vnto this generation, and thy power to euery one that is to come. Psalms 71:18 (KJV)
and thy power to every one
that is to come. Psalms 71:18 (KJV)
This verse belongs to Psalm 71, a heartfelt prayer that expresses the psalmist’s confidence in God’s protection and deliverance throughout the course of life. In it the writer, aware of advancing age and the frailty that accompanies grey hair, petitions God not to abandon him until he has displayed God’s strength to his contemporaries and to those who will follow.
Trust in God’s Faithfulness – The psalmist acknowledges his old age and grey hair, a stage when physical vigor may be waning. In light of this, he declares an unwavering trust that even in his twilight years God will not forsake him. This conviction reflects a deep belief in God’s steadfast faithfulness and His continual commitment to His people.
Desire to Proclaim God’s Strength – The writer expresses a sincere longing to become a living testimony of God’s power. He wishes to declare and showcase divine might to the present generation, believing that his own experiences of deliverance and protection can serve as a powerful illustration of God’s faithfulness. By sharing his story, he hopes to inspire and encourage his contemporaries.
God’s Power for Future Generations – The psalmist’s vision extends beyond his own time. He seeks to proclaim God’s power to “every one that is to come,” so that future generations may also know and experience God’s greatness. This reveals a sense of responsibility to preserve and transmit the knowledge of God’s strength to succeeding ages.
Overall, Psalm 71:18 urges believers to place their trust in God’s faithfulness throughout every stage of life, regardless of age or circumstance. It also reminds us of the importance of using our life experiences as a platform to proclaim God’s strength and power, not only to those around us today but also to those who will inherit the faith tomorrow.
