Understanding Psalms 71:20

Psalms 71:20 states: "You who have shown me great troubles and adversities will revive me again; from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again." This verse encapsulates themes of hope, restoration, and divine intervention in times of distress.

Summary of Meaning

The psalmist reflects on a profound journey through tribulation, emphasizing God's power to rejuvenate and uplift even from the direst of circumstances. Public domain commentaries provide rich interpretations:

• Matthew Henry: He notes the theme of perseverance through trials, suggesting that God often allows us to experience great troubles to prepare us for greater blessings. Through suffering, we understand the depth of God’s mercy.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes the assurance of God's deliverance. He interprets "revive me again" as not merely a physical restoration but a spiritual renewal that reflects God's ongoing commitment to His people.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke describes the 'depths of the earth' as a metaphor for extreme despondency but insists that God's promises ensure deliverance, reassuring believers of His faithfulness through their struggles.

Thematic Connections

This verse richly connects with several themes found throughout scripture, highlighting a common narrative of hope and renewal:

• God's Faithfulness: Similar feelings of despair and hope are expressed in Psalms 40:2, where God lifts the psalmist from a slimy pit.
• Divine Restoration: Isaiah 61:3 speaks of God providing comfort and beauty for ashes, resonating with the restorative aspect of Psalms 71:20.
• Empowerment in Trials: 2 Corinthians 1:4 describes God comforting us in all our troubles, reflecting the essence of revitalization from despair.
• Promise of Resurrection: The imagery of being brought up again parallels Romans 6:4, which speaks to the new life we receive through Christ.
• Revival Theme: Ezekiel 37:5 discusses God breathing life into dry bones, mirroring the plea for revival in this Psalm.
• Hope in God's Deliverance: In Psalms 30:5, the psalmist declares that weeping may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning, paralleling with the promise of revival.
• Salvation from Despair: Psalms 34:17 states that when the righteous cry, the Lord hears them, resonating with the theme of divine intervention.
• Restoration Promises: Joel 2:25 shares God's assurance of restoration for all that has been lost, echoing the renewal in Psalms 71:20.
• Enduring Strength: Philippians 4:13 reflects on the strength given by Christ, reinforcing the transformative power of faith during adversity.

Bible Cross-References for Further Study

Here are notable cross-references that relate to Psalms 71:20:

• Psalms 40:2 - God lifts us from despair.
• 2 Corinthians 1:4 - Comfort in our tribulations.
• Isaiah 61:3 - Beauty for ashes, restoration theme.
• Romans 6:4 - New life through resurrection.
• Joel 2:25 - God will restore what was lost.
• Psalms 30:5 - Joy following sorrow.
• Ezekiel 37:5 - Life from death imagery.
• Psalms 34:17 - The Lord hears the righteous.
• Philippians 4:13 - Strength from Christ.

Practical Applications

Reflecting on Psalms 71:20, believers are encouraged to:

• Trust in God's Timing: Understanding that trials lead to restoration.
• Seek Comfort in Scripture: Use cross-references to bolster faith during difficulties.
• Engage in Prayer: To find solace and connection with God in suffering.
• Share Testimonies: Encourage others through personal experiences of revival and renewal.

Conclusion

Psalms 71:20 serves as a profound reminder of God's unwavering power and desire to revive His people in times of distress. By exploring its connections through scriptural cross-referencing, readers can delve deeper into the rich tapestry of God's promises throughout the Bible.