SURREY CHAPEL – Fellowship Group Notes for the 13th/14th March 2013
Psalm 71
Age Concern

The Psalmist does express concerns about old age. Yet, this Psalm also has much to say to all ages. We could have a Summary of v1-8 –crusty but trusty, v9-18 greying but praying and v19-24 suffering but shouting. However –we will look at the Psalmist’s confidence that God remains faithful, has not abandoned him even though his enemies might say so. The Psalmist is saying that God is faithful when young and when old (indeed through life).

CONFIDENCE IN GOD AFFIRMED   v 1 – 8
v1	Could read – ‘God I trust You, really I do, just don’t let me let me look like a fool for trusting You!’
Which verses (or phrases) show his trust in God?
In what circumstances do we find it hard to trust God?
Although this maybe written by looking back on a lifetime of knowing and trusting God, what is it that actually gives him such confidence? (see especially v5-6)  
Where is your hope? (Colossians 1v27)
v7 ‘portent’ (NIV) –( I am as a wonder and surprise to many – Amplified Bible) Whatever circumstances concerning his public reputation – he could still praise –v8. Would you say that is true for you? (Psalm 35v28)  Or is your faith a bit shaky and blown about by a gust of wind (bad circumstances)?                                                                                           

CONFIDENCE PRACTICED IN PRAYER   v 9 – 18
v9-13		Praying for help – the Psalmist just naturally turn it to the Lord in prayer.
Pick out the requests that he makes in these verses.
Is there a danger that in our society we tend to push older people into a corner? No more use in the church, too weak, not relevant, no purpose. (v18 may have part answer)
When are the sorts of times we feel forsaken by God? (v9, 11,)
v14-18	Praying with hope
v14	‘but as for me’ - -what is your ‘hope’ – and on what basis? Does this lead you to ‘praise’, more and more?
What are you planning for retirement?
v15-17 Life’s experiences leads him to tell what God has done, so therefore what in these verses does he resolve to do?
At any age it should be our aim to praise God more and more v14 and proclaim salvation v15
How are you doing that? What might you consider doing to ‘praise and proclaim’ more?

CONFIDENCE IN GOD VINDICATED   v 19 - 24
v19	See also Isaiah 40 v 25-31  (Hymn –How great thou art!)
Not bitter and twisted – What is refreshing about his attitude in v20-21? He had experienced the chastening of the Lord – see also Hebrews 12 v 5-11
However low the Lord may permit us to sink, He will fix a limit to the descent, and in due time will bring us up again” [Spurgeon].
v22-24	What is he now praising God for? (at least three things)
God wants to write a testimony of greatness in our lives – but He can only do so if we trust in His faithfulness.
Closing thoughts – (on CONFIDENCE) - read Hebrews 3v14 and 1 John 2v28
											D.J.
PRAYER POINTS –
March 16	Momentum – Ascend Men’s Conference (Cambridge)
Pray for the Pastors –Tom and Gary, and Women’s Worker –Bev.
Easter week-end services