Psalms 71:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 71:8
8 Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day.
Chapter Context
Psalms 71 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, love, holiness. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 71:8
8 Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day.
Analysis
The commitment to have one's mouth 'filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day' envisions worship saturating every moment. 'Filled' suggests overflow—praise so abundant it cannot be contained. 'All the day' eliminates segmenting sacred from secular time; every hour belongs to God. This totality of worship reflects the greatest commandment: loving God with all heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). Comprehensive devotion produces continuous praise.
Historical Context
Jewish practice included morning and evening prayers, mealtime blessings, and regular psalm-singing, creating rhythm of 'all day' praise. This disciplined worship shaped a God-centered life.
Reflection
- What practical steps can you take to make praise a consistent 'all day' practice?
- How can you fill your mouth with God's praise when it's tempted to complain, gossip, or speak idly?
- What is the relationship between set times of worship and continuous awareness of God's presence?
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Psalms 35:28, 63:5, 146:2
- Parallel theme: Psalms 71:15, 71:24, 96:6, 104:1