What is the meaning of Psalms 71:12?

O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help.

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Psalms 71:12 Bible Verse Meaning

Psalms 71:12 - Summary of Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 71:12 reads: "O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help."

Verse Meaning

This verse expresses a heartfelt plea from the psalmist, seeking God's presence and assistance in times of distress. The urgency of the request highlights the reliance on divine support during challenging moments.

Commentary from Public Domain Sources

  • Matthew Henry's Commentary:

    Matthew Henry notes that this psalm is a prayer expressing deep dependence on God. He emphasizes that the psalmist acknowledges his own helplessness and dire need for God's presence. The repetition shows the intensity of the plea, indicating a profound reliance on God's faithfulness and the urgency for divine intervention.

  • Albert Barnes' Notes:

    Albert Barnes elaborates that the phrase "be not far from me" signifies a spiritual longing for God’s presence. He provides insight into the importance of God's nearness during times of trouble, reinforcing the theme of seeking comfort in God's support, especially when one feels abandoned or distressed.

  • Adam Clarke's Commentary:

    Adam Clarke articulates that the expression used teaches about the necessity of seeking God earnestly. He interprets the hastening of God's help as a recognition that divine assistance is vital for overcoming life’s numerous challenges. Clarke emphasizes that invoking God's immediacy acknowledges both human vulnerability and God’s omnipresence.

Theological Insights

The plea for God not to be far signifies an understanding of His sovereignty and presence. The psalmist recognizes that even in despair, God’s help is not just needed but is also available to those who earnestly seek it. This verse captures the essence of sincere prayer – revealing human vulnerability and the conviction that divine assistance is crucial.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages believers to seek God’s presence actively in their daily lives. It serves as a reminder that no situation is too dire for God's intervention and that a heartfelt prayer often resonates with God’s readiness to help.

Related Bible Cross References

  • Psalm 119:151 - "Thou art near, O Lord; and all thy commandments are truth."
  • Isaiah 41:10 - "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."
  • Hebrews 13:5 - "For he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."

The exploration of Psalms 71:12 reveals the depth of human longing for divine aid during hardships. The insights gleaned from respected commentaries like those of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide a rich understanding of this plea, highlighting its relevance for contemporary faith and practice.