How does Psalm 71:10 encourage trust in God amidst opposition? Setting the Scene Psalm 71 is the testimony of an aging believer reflecting on a lifetime of God’s rescue. Verse 10 sits right in the middle of that reflection: “For my enemies speak against me, and those who lie in wait for my life conspire.” Facing Real Opposition • The psalmist does not downplay the threat. • He names it: people are plotting, scheming, speaking evil. • Acknowledging danger is not unbelief; it is honesty before God (cf. Psalm 142:2). Choosing Trust Over Fear • By voicing the threat to God, the writer shifts the burden from his shoulders to the Lord’s. • The next verses continue: “Be not far from me, O God” (v. 12). Trouble becomes the trigger for petition, which breeds trust. • This pattern echoes throughout Scripture: ‑ Psalm 56:3 – “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” ‑ 2 Chronicles 20:12 – “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.” God’s Track Record of Faithfulness • Earlier in the psalm he says, “You have been my hope, O Lord GOD, my confidence from my youth” (v. 5). Present enemies meet the same God who delivered in the past. • Hebrews 13:8 affirms, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” If God defended then, He defends now. • Romans 8:31 reminds, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” The conspiracies of men cannot overturn the counsel of God (Proverbs 19:21). Application to Our Lives Today • Identify the opposition—cultural, relational, spiritual—and bring it to God in plain speech. • Recall personal stories of God’s rescue; rehearse them until confidence rises. • Anchor your heart in promises such as Isaiah 54:17, “No weapon formed against you shall prosper,” and 2 Timothy 4:17, “The Lord stood with me and strengthened me.” • Let every enemy’s plot become fresh motivation to cling to the One who never fails. |
    |