Psalm 71:17 Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.
I take exception to verse 20. While God will let us live with the consequences of our actions, everything is filtered through Him, and sometimes life just stinks, I do not believe that God sends trouble as a punishment. Again, I *do* think He very routinely lets us live with the negative consequences of our actions.
Psalm 71:18 Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.
I just cannot believe in a vengeful God. A God who would send His one and only Son to earth to live as a human and die for my sins is not a God who would point the finger of judgment, sending plagues upon the earth. Humans make a big enough mess on our own. Natural consequences are a real thing. Sometimes others get hurt because of the natural consequences of *my* choices, but that’s not God. That’s humanity.
Psalm 71:19 Your righteousness, God, reaches to the heavens, you who have done great things. Who is like you, God?
Precious Savior, Thank You for Your Son, Jesus. Thank You for the change in our relationship that happened when You sent Your Son for my sins. Forgive me when I make bad decisions. Forgive me when my bad decisions result in pain and suffering for others. Help me to grow closer to You with each breath. Amen.
Psalm 71:20 Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up.
Have a blessed day.