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Psalms 71:2 meaning

God invites the faithful to rely on His righteousness, trusting that He will always incline His ear and graciously rescue those who call upon Him.

When the psalmist cries out, “In Your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; Incline Your ear to me and save me” (v.2), he is appealing directly to the character of God. The psalmist recognizes that God’s righteousness is perfect, unchanging, and able to bring freedom from all trouble. By invoking God’s righteousness, the psalmist acknowledges that any deliverance is rooted not in personal merit, but in the LORD’s just and gracious nature.

This plea reveals a humble dependence on God’s ability to listen and respond. The psalmist’s request, “Incline Your ear to me” (v.2), reflects confidence that the Creator of the universe is deeply attentive to the cries of His people. In many biblical narratives, such divine attentiveness is shown when God “rescues” in ways that demonstrate both His power and His salvation for those who trust Him (John 10:28).

Moreover, this verse highlights how our appeals can be grounded in the unchanging righteousness of God. Even in moments of desperation, believers can confidently plead for divine intervention, knowing that the same God who rescued Israel from slavery or delivered David from his enemies remains active and ready to save. Through faith, we approach Him, convinced that He hears us and answers in accordance with His perfect nature and sovereign will.

Psalms 71:2