Psalms 71:16
I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.
Psalms 71:16
In this verse, the psalmist declares dependence on God’s strength, specifically “the strength of the Lord GOD,” and commits to mentioning God’s “righteousness, even thine only.” This reflects a layered confession: human energy and ability are insufficient; divine enablement is essential for steadfast life. The phrase “in the strength of the Lord GOD” signals a reliance on divine power for endurance, protection, and mission. The clause “thine righteousness, even thine only” emphasizes exclusive trust in God’s righteous acts and saving faithfulness, rather than blending in human merit or ceremonial ritual.
Culturally, ancient Israel understood righteousness as both moral fidelity and the faithful act of God in delivering and maintaining the covenant people. To emphasize God’s righteousness as the sole focus guards against pride or self-reliance, pointing the speaker (and audience) back to the source of salvation.
This verse centers on dependence on God’s power and the exclusive focus on God’s righteousness as the source of life. It highlights the gracious, active role of God in salvation—an invitation to rest in divine initiative. It also foreshadows the New Testament theme that human works cannot achieve righteousness apart from God’s grace, and that the believer’s life is sustained by God’s strength for joyful proclamation.
Practically, this invites a posture of humbly relying on God in daily tasks. When facing daunting responsibilities—parenting, work projects, caregiving—start with a prayer inviting God’s strength before you act. Let your words center on God’s righteousness in your conversations and decisions. Consider a “strength log”: each day note one area where you depended on God’s power and one way you witnessed his righteousness, then share with a friend for accountability. Remember that “thine only” keeps us from banking on our own cleverness; resist the urge to solve everything by sheer willpower. Instead, cultivate disciplines—scripture, prayer, and community—that keep the focus on God’s righteousness as the lifelong baseline.
Cross-References: Isaiah 40:31; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Philippians 4:13; Psalm 118:14; Habakkuk 3:19