What is the meaning of Psalm 71:23? When I sing praise to You - The verse begins with a choice: “When I sing praise to You.” Praise is not an occasional add-on but a deliberate response to God’s character and works. - Scripture consistently calls God’s people to verbal worship. “Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout to the Rock of our salvation” (Psalm 95:1-2). - The psalmist shows personal accountability—he will praise, regardless of mood or circumstance, echoing Paul’s “I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind” (1 Corinthians 14:15). - Praise aligns the heart with truth, reminds us of God’s faithfulness (Hebrews 13:15), and publicly honors Him (Psalm 34:3). my lips will shout for joy - Praise naturally overflows into joyful volume: “Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth; burst into jubilant song” (Psalm 98:4). - Joy is not mere emotion; it is confidence in God’s goodness (Philippians 4:4). - Outward expression matters. Jesus observed, “Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45). Spirit-born joy demands audible testimony so others can “hear and be glad” (Psalm 34:2). along with my soul - Worship engages the whole person—body and inner being. “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me” (Psalm 103:1). - The psalmist refuses a split between external praise and internal reality. True worship springs from the depths of the redeemed heart (Mark 12:30). - When lips and soul unite, worship is authentic, sustaining even in trials (Psalm 42:11). which You have redeemed - The psalmist grounds his joy in redemption. “The LORD redeems His servants; none who take refuge in Him will be condemned” (Psalm 34:22). - Redemption in the Old Testament often pointed to God’s deliverance from enemies or bondage (Isaiah 43:1). Ultimately it foreshadows Christ, “In Him we have redemption through His blood” (Ephesians 1:7). - Gratitude for rescue fuels continual praise. Knowing we are bought back from sin’s penalty turns every song into a victory shout (Colossians 1:13-14). summary Psalm 71:23 celebrates whole-person worship. Because God has redeemed us, we make the intentional choice to sing. Joy erupts audibly from our lips and resonates deeply within our souls. This united, grateful praise publicly honors the Redeemer and strengthens our own faith, reminding us—and all who listen—of His steadfast salvation. |
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