Psalms 71:21 Meaning and Interpretation

Bible Verse: Psalms 71:21

"You shall increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side."

Summary of the Verse

Psalms 71:21 speaks of God's promise to elevate and comfort the psalmist in times of trouble. This promise underscores the divine assurance of support and the restoration of dignity, which aligns with the overarching themes found throughout the Scriptures.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes God's faithfulness in enhancing the believer's stature despite adversities. He notes that the psalmist, in his old age, recognizes the need for comfort, suggesting that spiritual grace is as crucial as physical restoration.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes focuses on the 'greatness' as an acknowledgment of the inherent worth provided by God. He expresses that this greatness is not of worldly origin but is rooted in a right relationship with the Lord, which ensures inner peace even amidst trials.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke indicates that the psalmist’s request for comfort reflects a deep understanding of human frailty. He suggests that true comfort is found in God's presence and the psalmist's relationship with Him, which transcends earthly sufferings.

Cross-References for Psalms 71:21

This verse can be linked with various other Bible verses that echo similar themes of comfort and exaltation:

• Isaiah 40:1-2: "Comfort, yes, comfort My people!" – A call to provide comfort to those in distress.
• Psalms 23:3: "He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness." – A reminder of God’s restorative power.
• Philippians 4:19: "And my God shall supply all your needs." – God's assurance of provision and comfort.
• Psalms 46:1: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." – Reinforces the idea of God as a constant source of support.
• 2 Corinthians 1:3-4: "God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulations." – Highlights God's role in providing comfort in hardship.
• Romans 15:5-6: "May the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded." – Encouragement to find unity in God's comfort.
• Matthew 5:4: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." – A promise of comfort for those who are grieving.

Bible Verse Connections

This section explores the thematic connections between biblical texts using cross-references, enhancing the understanding of God's promises throughout the Scriptures.

Exploring Themes of Comfort

• Comfort in Adversity: The recurring theme in Scriptures emphasizes that God's comfort often arrives in the midst of struggles and life's challenges.
• Restoration of the Soul: Many verses value the restoration provided by God, reflecting an intrinsic link between physical and spiritual rejuvenation.

Links Between Old and New Testament

The connections between the Old Testament promises and their fulfillment in the New Testament illustrate a cohesive narrative of divine comfort. For instance, the prophetic promises in Isaiah find their fulfillment in the teachings of Christ regarding comfort and empathy toward the brokenhearted.

Usage of Cross-References in Bible Study

Cross-referencing Bible verses is a valuable method for deepening one's understanding of the Scriptures. Here are some tools and methods to effectively study cross-referenced themes:

• Bible Concordance: A useful tool for identifying connections across various scripture passages.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Provides a systematic approach to exploring inter-Biblical dialogues.
• Comparative Bible Studies: Analyzing verses in context can illuminate shared themes and nuances.

Conclusion

Psalms 71:21 captures the essence of God's promise to uplift and comfort His followers. The insights distilled from various commentaries and cross-references create a rich tapestry that reveals the depth of God's assurance to His people. Thus, in both personal reflection and communal study, recognizing the interconnectedness of scriptures enhances our spiritual growth and understanding of divine truths.