Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.
PSALMS 71:18KJVWhat does Psalms 71:18 mean?
Psalms 71:18 is a prayer from an older person asking God not to abandon them in their old age, so they can continue to tell the next generation about God’s strength and power. The verse expresses a desire to keep sharing what God has done, even as the speaker grows old and gray.
The speaker in Psalms 71:18 is traditionally understood to be David, talking directly to God. He is reflecting on his life as he ages, concerned about being left alone but also feeling a responsibility to pass on stories of God’s might to younger people and future generations. The verse highlights both a personal need for God’s presence and a commitment to teaching others about God’s deeds.
The Hebrew behind Psalms 71:18
- "Old" (זָקֵן, zaqen) and "grayheaded" (שֵׂיבָה, seivah) both emphasize the advanced age of the speaker, showing that the request comes from someone who feels the limits of age and experience.
- "Forsake" (עָזַב, azav) means to leave or abandon. The plea is for God not to withdraw support or presence, especially in a vulnerable time of life.
- "Strength" (זְרוֹעַ, zeroaʿ) literally means "arm" and often symbolizes power or might. The speaker wants to show God’s active, powerful help to others.
- "Generation" (דּוֹר, dor) refers to a group of people living at the same time, stressing the importance of passing on faith and stories to those who come after.
Why Psalms 71:18 matters
- Psalms 71:18 clarifies that feeling useful and having a purpose can continue into old age, especially in sharing wisdom and faith with younger people.
- The verse highlights the idea that each generation has a role in teaching the next about God’s actions, making faith a living, ongoing story.
- It connects to the wider psalm, which is about trusting God throughout all stages of life, not just in youth or strength.