Psalm 71 – To Hope Continually

Summary:

David is getting older and his son Adonijah is rebelling against him to take his throne. David calls God his "trust", his "hope", his "rock", his "fortress", and his "refuge". He is determined to hope continually, walk in His strength, and speak praises! 

Key Verse:

“But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more." – Psalm71:14 (NKJV)


Keyword Study: "Continually" – תָּמִיד (tāmîd)

Hebrew Word: תָּמִיד (tāmîd)

Meaning: continually, constantly, without ceasing, regularly

Used here as: “I will hope continually…” — expressing unwavering, ongoing trust and praise without interruption.

The psalmist isn’t merely saying he will hope often—he declares a habitual, uninterrupted posture of faith. This shows his deep spiritual rhythm: even in old age and hardship, his hope in God remains constant. This reminds me of Psalm 1 where David says that meditating "day and night" is key to being happy. 


Main Themes:

  • Continually Hoping: Even in the worst times, we are called to hope.

  • Walking In His Strength: It isn't our strength, but God's strength that we are to walk in. 

  • Talking Of His Goodness: Our mouths should be speaking of His goodness, salvation, and glory all day long. 


Reflection & Application:

It is good to speak of God's righteousness, His salvation, His strength, and glory all day. We do this through praise, worship, meditating, fellowshiping, praying, and declaring His wonderous works! The world has a way of stealing our time and attention so that we are absorbed in the cares of this world rather than the riches of His glory. 

  1. What is an example of how you are walking in His strength?
  2. What goodness of God in your life can you share today?
  3. What is an example of having "hope continually" in your life?