Psalms 71:14

Psalms 71:14

Psalm 71 is a prayer of lament turning into confident praise, attributed to an older Psalmist who has endured long seasons of trouble yet remains steadfast in trust. In verse 14, the speaker declares a deliberate, forward-looking stance: “But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more.” The structure of this verse reflects a sustained spiritual discipline rather than a fleeting mood. The Hebrew word for “hope” often carries the sense of steadfast trust rooted in God’s faithfulness, not optimism unrelated to reality. The phrase “continually” underscores an ongoing posture—hope as a daily rhythm, not a sporadic event.

Culturally and historically, ancient Hebrew poets often link lament with praise, showing that honest suffering and faithful worship are not opposed but braided together. The psalmist has likely faced threats, aging, and a sense of divine silence, yet resilience remains anchored in God’s character. The vow to “praise thee more and more” signals an ascent: as God proves himself in present trouble, the believer’s praise grows deeper and broader, not shallower.

This verse highlights the continuity of hope as a theological anchor: God’s faithfulness is the basis for confident praise. Hope here is not mere wishful thinking but trust in God’s steadfast love, sovereignty, and purposes even when circumstances are bleak. The commitment to praise “more and more” suggests that the spiritual life is dynamic—growth in holiness, trust, and gratitude as one witnesses God’s past faithfulness in the present and future. It also reflects covenant faithfulness: God has promised to be with his people; the believer’s response is reciprocal praise, a life oriented toward God rather than self.

Practically, this verse invites us to cultivate a daily praise practice, especially when faced with long seasons of difficulty. Begin each morning with a short act of hope-filled worship—reminding yourself of God’s past faithfulness and choosing to praise him regardless of mood. In real life: if you’re burdened by health worries, job stress, or relational strain, set a timer for five minutes to recount “God’s benefits” and offer praise aloud. Integrate praise into routine—commute, chores, or exercise—so that ongoing hope becomes habitual. Community helps: share “praises” with a trusted friend or small group, so the testimony of God’s faithfulness fuels others’ hope. The call to “more and more” pushes us toward progressive maturity, not complacency—expanding our praise from personal relief to global glimpses of God’s righteousness at work in the world.

Cross-References: Psalm 42:5; Psalm 71:5; Romans 12:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Hebrews 10:23