Commentary on Psalms 71:15

Bible Verse: "My mouth shall show forth thy righteousness and thy salvation all the day; for I know not the numbers thereof."

Introduction

The context of Psalms 71 is one of reflection and trust in God amidst trials. The psalmist, traditionally attributed to David, expresses a deep commitment to proclaiming God's righteousness and salvation. This verse, particularly, speaks to the importance of communication in faith and the continuous recognition of God’s deeds throughout one’s life.

Analysis of the Verse

This verse reveals several critical themes that resonate through the work of early commentators.

The Assertion of Righteousness

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of righteousness in the life of a believer. He suggests that the psalmist, being aware of his own inadequacies, finds profound assurance in God's righteousness. Henry notes that God's righteousness is not merely a legal attribute but denotes His faithfulness to His covenant and people.

The Declaration of Salvation

Adam Clarke remarks that salvation, in this context, is not limited to physical deliverance but encompasses the entirety of God's redemptive work. Clarke argues that the psalmist feels an urgency to declare God's saving acts, indicating the importance of testimony in the believer's life. This continuous proclamation serves to bolster the faith of the individual and the community.

Continuous Proclamation

Albert Barnes draws attention to the phrase "all the day." He interprets this as a call for a relentless announcement of God's goodness and mercy. Barnes suggests that the psalmist's commitment to proclaim God's righteousness is indicative of a life consumed with gratitude and reflection on God's past deliverances.

Theological Implications

This verse invites readers to ponder the implications of proclaiming faith in daily life. The call to show forth God's righteousness and salvation is an existential challenge that tests the believer's understanding of God's active role in their life.

The Nature of Witness

Henry posits that every believer has a duty to testify about what God has done in their lives. This testimony is grounded in personal experience and knowledge. A lack of awareness of God's workings may lead to a diminished faith, making it vital for believers to seek continuous engagement with scriptural truths and God's presence in their lives.

Knowledge Without Numbers

The latter part of the verse, "for I know not the numbers thereof," communicates a profound sense of awe at God's works. Clarke emphasizes that the psalmist acknowledges the limits of human ability to quantify or fully understand the magnitude of God’s salvation and righteousness. This humbleness can lead to greater dependence on God, encouraging believers to lean into their faith rather than their understanding.

Practical Applications

• Daily Reflection: Believers should engage in daily practices that allow them to acknowledge and remember instances of God's righteousness and salvation in their lives.
• Evangelism: There is an implicit call to share one’s faith with others, reflecting the psalmist's commitment to proclaiming God's character. Sharing testimonies can strengthen communal faith.
• Trust in God: Recognizing the inadequacies of expressing God fully encourages trust in His wisdom and timing. Believers should cultivate an attitude of humility and continuous learning about God.

Conclusion

Psalms 71:15 encapsulates the essence of faith as an ongoing dialogue of gratitude and proclamation. By examining the perspectives of early commentators such as Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, we find a rich tapestry of insights urging believers to commit to proclaiming God's righteousness and salvation ceaselessly. In a modern context, such a commitment remains vital for personal faith and communal witness.