Psalm 71:12

12 (70-12) O God, be not thou far from me: O my God, make haste to my help.

Psalm 71:12 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 71:12

O God, be not far from me
God is everywhere, at hand and afar off, with regard to his being, power, and providence; his glorious presence is in heaven, his gracious presence is with his people; but, when he hides his face, he seems to be at a distance; and this they cannot bear, and therefore deprecate it; see ( Psalms 10:1 ) ;

O my God, make haste for my help;
he knew that his help was in God, and that there was none for him elsewhere; and that he could help him when none else could, and was a present help in time of trouble; and it being such a time with him, and his case desperate, he desires the Lord that he would make haste; and he addresses him as his own God, the consideration of which encouraged his faith and hope in him, and carried in it an argument to help him; see ( Psalms 119:94 ) .

Psalm 71:12 In-Context

10 (70-10) For my enemies have spoken against me; and they that watched my soul have consulted together,

11 (70-11) Saying: God hath forsaken him: pursue and take him, for there is none to deliver him.

12 (70-12) O God, be not thou far from me: O my God, make haste to my help.

13 (70-13) Let them be confounded and come to nothing that detract my soul; let them be covered with confusion and blame that seek my hurt.

14 (70-14) But I will always hope; and will add to all thy praise.