Psalm 71:2: “In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me; turn your ear to me and save me.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 71:2 is a heartfelt plea from the psalmist asking for God’s intervention and salvation. The request for rescue, deliverance, and salvation points to a deep reliance on God’s power and goodness. The psalmist calls upon God’s righteousness as the basis for his request, showing confidence that God will act in line with His holy and just character. “Turn your ear to me” is a vivid way of asking God to be attentive and responsive. In this verse, we see a humble admission of need and dependence on God, not based on the psalmist’s worthiness but on God’s righteousness. This reminds us that we don’t earn God’s rescue; rather, He acts because of who He is—a righteous and caring God.
Historical Context
Psalm 71 does not specify the author, but many believe it could have been written by David in his later years, when he faced challenges and threats even in his old age. In the culture of ancient Israel, God’s righteousness was not just an abstract idea but a real, practical promise that He would set things right and protect His people. Israel often turned to God as their ultimate source of justice and protection, especially when enemies or circumstances threatened them. In David’s time, being rescued and delivered wasn’t only about personal safety; it reflected God’s role as Israel’s defender and the keeper of His promises.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores an essential aspect of God’s character: His righteousness. The psalmist’s trust in God’s righteous nature serves as the foundation for his appeal for rescue. God’s righteousness means He will act according to what is just, faithful, and true. This isn’t a plea to an indifferent deity; it’s a call to a just and compassionate God who cares about the struggles and needs of His people. For Christians, this verse reminds us that we can appeal to God not only because He is powerful but also because He is good and right in all His actions. The psalmist’s request for deliverance highlights that God’s righteousness brings not only moral perfection but also active involvement in the lives of His people.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 71:2 uses a poetic structure that emphasizes God’s righteousness as the basis for deliverance. The words “rescue,” “deliver,” “turn your ear,” and “save” are all action-oriented, underscoring the psalmist’s desire for immediate, tangible help from God. The phrase “turn your ear to me” is a powerful metaphor, suggesting that the psalmist desires God’s full attention, much like a child seeking the listening ear of a parent. These vivid images reinforce the psalmist’s desperate need and trust that God is attentive to those who call on Him.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 31:1-2: “In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue.” This passage closely parallels Psalm 71:2 and shows a consistent theme of trusting in God’s righteousness for deliverance.
- Psalm 34:17: “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.” This verse confirms that God is attentive to the cries of His people and responds to their needs.
- Isaiah 46:13: “I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed.” This promise reinforces that God’s righteousness and salvation are inseparable and ever-present for His people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 71:2 offers encouragement that God’s righteousness is still a source of hope and deliverance. When we face struggles, we can call upon God with the same trust, knowing that He listens and acts in line with His righteous character. We don’t have to bear life’s difficulties alone or depend on our own strength; instead, we can rely on God’s righteousness as our foundation. This verse encourages us to trust God’s character and seek His help, believing that He will respond out of love, compassion, and justice.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Psalm 71:2 emphasizes that God’s righteousness is intertwined with His love. The psalmist’s plea reflects confidence that God will act out of His righteous and loving nature. God’s love compels Him to respond to the needs of His people, showing that He is not distant or unfeeling but fully engaged and caring. The psalmist does not ask for rescue based on his own goodness but rather on God’s character. This verse teaches us that God’s love is not passive; it moves Him to deliver and protect those who trust in Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Through Jesus, we see God’s righteousness fully revealed. Jesus embodies God’s justice and mercy, rescuing us from sin and death. Romans 3:22-24 explains, “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe… and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection demonstrate God’s righteousness in action—He saves us not because we are deserving but because of His grace. Jesus is our ultimate rescuer, fulfilling the psalmist’s prayer for deliverance. In Him, we find the fullest expression of God’s righteousness, which brings salvation and hope to all who believe.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that God is righteous impact your trust in Him during difficult times?
- In what ways have you experienced God “turning His ear” to you in your own life?
- Why do you think the psalmist appeals to God’s righteousness rather than his own worthiness for help?
- How does Psalm 71:2 help you understand God’s desire to be involved in the lives of His people?
- How does Jesus’s role as our rescuer deepen your appreciation of God’s righteousness and love?
Psalm 71:2 is a comforting reminder that God’s righteousness is our hope and strength. Just as the psalmist called on God with confidence, we too can find peace in knowing that God is attentive and ready to rescue those who seek Him.