Aaron Shust - Even In My Old Age (Psalm 71) Lyrics

Even In My Old Age (Psalm 71)

Even In My Old Age (Psalm 71) Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

"Even In My Old Age (Psalm 71)" by Aaron Shust is a moving musical expression of lifelong faith and dependence upon God, drawing directly from the heartfelt prayer found in Psalm 71. Released with an accompanying video on May 10, 2023, the song captures the essence of a soul that has known God from its earliest moments and continues to lean on Him through every season of life, including the final ones. It resonates with anyone who has walked a long road of faith and feels the natural vulnerability that comes with aging, while holding onto the sure hope in their Creator.

The song opens by establishing a deep, long-standing relationship with God, stating, "I have trusted in You ever since I was young," and declaring God as "My only hope." This initial declaration emphasizes not a recent conversion or fleeting belief, but a foundational reliance that predates conscious memory, highlighting God's presence and support from the very beginning of life. The line "It was You who took me from my mother's womb" further reinforces this theme of God's continuous care and active role in the individual's existence from birth.

The central plea and emotional core of the song arrives in the chorus: "Even in my old age, Even when my hair is gray O God, Do not forsake me." This is a vulnerable and honest cry, acknowledging the physical realities of aging – the graying hair and diminishing strength – and expressing a profound human need for God's enduring presence. It is a prayer for continuity in the divine relationship, asking not to be left alone or abandoned as the final years approach. This repeated request forms the anchor of the song, highlighting the depth of trust that seeks God's faithfulness even when earthly capabilities wane.

Adding another dimension to this reliance, the lyrics speak of God's power to redeem and restore: "From the heart of the earth You have redeemed my soul," and "You take me down to the depths but You revive me again." These lines point to God's ability to rescue from the most difficult or desperate situations, even bringing life back from metaphorical (or literal) depths. The rhetorical question "Who is like You God?" underscores the unique and incomparable nature of God's power and faithfulness in delivering and restoring those who trust in Him, referencing His mighty acts throughout a lifetime.

Beyond the personal plea for steadfast companionship in old age, the song articulates a powerful purpose that extends beyond the self. The verses "Until I have proclaimed Your strength, Until I have proclaimed Your power, To another generation, To a people yet to come" reveal a deep desire for longevity and continued vitality not just for personal comfort, but for the crucial task of bearing witness to God's faithfulness. This speaks to the biblical mandate for older generations to pass on the knowledge of God's mighty deeds to the young, ensuring that faith endures across time.

This song is deeply rooted in the text of Psalm 71, which is a prayer attributed to an older individual seeking God's protection and deliverance in their later years. The psalm expresses trust in God from youth (Psalm 71:5-6), asks God not to cast the speaker off in old age when strength fails (Psalm 71:9), and resolves to continue declaring God's power and righteousness to future generations (Psalm 71:17-18). Aaron Shust's musical setting beautifully captures these core themes, offering a contemporary voice to this ancient prayer of enduring faith and hope in God's unwavering presence from birth through old age and into eternity, driven by the desire to ensure the next generation hears of God's great works. The song serves as an inspiration for believers of all ages, reminding them that faith is a journey meant to be walked with God every step of the way, and that even in the twilight years, there is purpose in declaring His goodness.