Psalms 71:16
I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.
Original Language Analysis
אָב֗וֹא
I will go in
H935
אָב֗וֹא
I will go in
Strong's:
H935
Word #:
1 of 7
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
בִּ֭גְבֻרוֹת
the strength
H1369
בִּ֭גְבֻרוֹת
the strength
Strong's:
H1369
Word #:
2 of 7
force (literally or figuratively); by implication, valor, victory
אַזְכִּ֖יר
I will make mention
H2142
אַזְכִּ֖יר
I will make mention
Strong's:
H2142
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
Cross References
Philippians 4:13I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.Philippians 3:9And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:Psalms 71:24My tongue also shall talk of thy righteousness all the day long: for they are confounded, for they are brought unto shame, that seek my hurt.Psalms 51:14Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.Ephesians 6:10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.Zechariah 10:12And I will strengthen them in the LORD; and they shall walk up and down in his name, saith the LORD.
Historical Context
Israel's temptation was crediting victories to their own strength (Deuteronomy 8:17). Prophets consistently redirected glory to God, whose power alone secured triumph.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean practically to 'go in the strength of the Lord God' rather than your own?
- How can you ensure you mention God's righteousness 'only,' without mixing in claims to personal merit?
- In what areas are you tempted to rely on your own righteousness rather than Christ's?
Analysis & Commentary
The psalmist will 'go in the strength of the Lord God' and 'make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.' Going in God's strength, not personal power, ensures success. Mentioning 'thy righteousness only' eliminates boasting in human achievement. This exclusive focus on divine righteousness anticipates Paul's teaching that believers have no righteousness of their own but rely entirely on Christ's imputed righteousness (Philippians 3:9). Sola gratia—grace alone—grounds all Christian confidence.