Psalms 71:20 - You, who have shown us many and bitter troubles, you will let me live. You will bring us up again from the depths of the earth.

Generated Verse: Psalms 71:20

What does "Psalms 71:20" mean?


Psalm 71:20 is a powerful expression of faith and hope in the face of adversity. Let's break down its meaning:

"You, who have shown us many and bitter troubles..." This acknowledges that the speaker (likely David, though the authorship is debated) has experienced significant hardship and suffering. The troubles are described as "many" and "bitter," emphasizing their severity and negative impact. It's a recognition of God's allowing or orchestrating (in some interpretations) difficult circumstances.

"...you will let me live." This is a declaration of faith and a plea for deliverance from death. The speaker believes that despite the suffering they have endured, God has the power to spare their life. It suggests that the troubles have brought the speaker near death, whether literally or figuratively (perhaps a threat to their well-being, reputation, or mental state).

"You will bring us up again from the depths of the earth." This is a powerful metaphor for resurrection and restoration. "The depths of the earth" can symbolize:

Literal death and burial: The hope of resurrection or a return from the brink of death.
Deep despair and hopelessness: A state of being overwhelmed by sadness, depression, or feelings of abandonment.
Severe adversity and oppression: Being brought low by enemies or difficult circumstances.

The phrase "bring us up again" suggests that God has the power to lift the speaker out of these dire situations and restore them to a place of life, joy, and honor. "Us" may refer to the speaker including himself in the experience of others who have suffered similar hardships.

In essence, the verse expresses a belief that even after experiencing great suffering, God is faithful and has the power to restore life, hope, and well-being. It is a testament to the enduring nature of God's love and the promise of redemption.

Key themes:

Suffering and adversity: Acknowledging the reality of hardship in life.
Faith and trust in God: Believing that God is in control and can bring about positive change.
Hope for restoration: Anticipating a future of healing, recovery, and renewed life.
Resilience: Declaring that despite the trouble, the speaker will survive.

This verse is often used to encourage those who are going through difficult times to hold onto their faith and trust that God will ultimately deliver them.