Psalms 71:18
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.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
In ancient cultures, elderly members held honored positions as wisdom-keepers and tradition-bearers. Leviticus 19:32 commanded, 'Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man.' Elders transmitted oral traditions, settled disputes, and ensured continuity of cultural and religious identity. Job 12:12 observes, 'With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding.'
However, old age also brought vulnerability. Without modern social security or retirement systems, elderly people depended on family support (the fifth commandment, 'Honour thy father and thy mother,' Exodus 20:12, implied material care). The elderly sometimes feared becoming burdensome or being neglected (Psalm 71:9, 'Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth'). This psalm expresses that concern while reframing it missionally—the goal isn't just survival but completing testimony.
In Judaism, the tradition of *zekenim* (elders) passing Torah to students ensured faith transmission. Rabbi Gamaliel taught Paul (Acts 22:3), who later taught Timothy (2 Timothy 2:2), exemplifying intergenerational discipleship. Early Christianity continued this pattern—older believers taught younger (Titus 2:3-5), and apostolic succession preserved teaching continuity. Modern church often marginalizes elderly members, but this psalm reminds us that older believers' testimony is crucial for faith transmission. Their lifetime of experiencing God's faithfulness provides irreplaceable witness to younger generations.
Questions for Reflection
- What testimony of God's faithfulness do you need to pass to the next generation before you die?
- How can you honor and learn from elderly believers who have witnessed God's strength over decades?
- What motivates you more—living comfortably in old age or completing your testimony before you die?
- In what ways can you be intentional about 'showing God's strength to the next generation'?
- How does viewing your lifespan as opportunity for witness rather than merely existence change your priorities?
Analysis & Commentary
Now also when I am old and greyheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come. This poignant prayer from an elderly believer reveals concern that extends beyond personal survival—the psalmist wants to live long enough to testify to the next generation. 'Old and greyheaded' (ziknah vesevah, זִקְנָה וְשֵׂיבָה) marks advanced age, the season when physical strength wanes but spiritual wisdom matures. The prayer 'forsake me not' (al ta'azveni, אַל־תַּעַזְבֵנִי) doesn't request escape from death but continued usefulness until testimony is complete.
The purpose clause—'until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation'—reveals the psalmist's driving motivation. 'Thy strength' (zero'akha, זְרוֹעֲךָ, literally 'thy arm') represents God's power in action. 'This generation' (dor, דּוֹר) and 'every one that is to come' (lekhol yavo, לְכָל־יָבוֹא, literally 'to all who will come') expands the scope—the testimony must reach both present and future. The elderly believer recognizes that their life's primary purpose is witness—displaying God's power to subsequent generations so faith continues.
This verse anticipates Paul's end-of-life testimony: 'I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness' (2 Timothy 4:7-8). The Christian's concern shouldn't be merely living long but finishing well—completing the testimony God assigned. Jesus prayed in John 17:4, 'I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.' Our goal is the same: remain faithful until our witness is complete, then depart in peace (Luke 2:29-30, Simeon's prayer).