Psalms 71:16

I will go in the strength of the Lord God: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.

Psalms 71:16 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 71 is a psalm of trust and a prayer for deliverance, traditionally attributed to King David. In this psalm, David seeks God’s protection from his enemies while expressing unwavering trust in the Lord, especially in times of trouble and old age. Verse 16 falls within this context of David’s plea for divine assistance.

Meaning

David proclaims his determination to go “in the strength of the Lord GOD.” The Hebrew phrasing can be understood as “I will go into the strengths of the Lord God,” emphasizing the power of God expressed in the plural. This signifies his reliance on God’s power rather than his own abilities or resources. It reflects a humble acknowledgment that true strength comes from God alone. As believers, we are called to recognize our dependence on God and to draw from His strength in all aspects of life.

David declares his intention to “make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.” Here, he emphasizes God’s righteousness as the focus of his praise and acknowledgment. This reference to God’s righteousness speaks to His moral character, justice, and faithfulness. David recognizes that God’s righteousness provides a firm foundation for his trust and serves as a reason to proclaim God’s goodness and faithfulness.

Biblical connections

This verse stresses that God’s righteousness alone is to be mentioned or proclaimed. It is not a creature’s righteousness but God’s own, sufficient to justify many. It is described as a “best robe of righteousness,” better than the best of man’s, better than Adam’s in innocence, or than the angels’ in heaven. It is a law-honoring and justice-satisfying righteousness, and an everlasting one. Believers are to put themselves in mind of it and, by repeated acts of faith, put it on as their justifying righteousness, since much of their joy, peace, and comfort depend upon it. Justification is not partly by Christ’s righteousness and partly by our own, but only by his, and through faith in it.

Application

Psalm 71:16 offers a valuable lesson for believers today. It reminds us to rely on God’s strength rather than our own abilities. When we trust in God and lean on His power, we can face challenges, trials, and opposition with confidence. By acknowledging God’s righteousness, we acknowledge His faithfulness and His perfect character. As we proclaim God’s righteousness, we testify to His goodness, grace, and salvation in our lives.

Reflection

In summary, Psalm 71:16 encourages believers to place their trust in the Lord’s strength and to proclaim His righteousness. By recognizing our dependence on God and acknowledging His righteousness, we can find strength, hope, and assurance in Him.