“Psalm 71 repeats sentences and motifs that appear in Psalms 22 and 31 (compare vv. 1–3 with 31:1–3; v. 6 with 22:10; v. 12 with 22:11). Because both are used in telling the passion story, Psalm 71 has also been associated with the passion of Jesus and the services of Holy Week.” Mays sees a messianic or royal reading of the psalm itself.

Eaton, view Ps 71, to form a significant connection to Ps 72. Eaton argues that the king here “hopes for renewal of life and the royal ‘greatness’ he knew as ruler in God’s cause.” Together, Pss 71-72 could, therefore, form a paired conclusion. Eaton also argues that Ps 42-43 is royal, thereby forming a royal-messianic frame around the entire book(if correctly interpreted). If one finds Eaton’s suggestion about the royal nature of Ps 42-43 is correct, then this psalm, along with the following royal psalms (Pss 44–45), creates an extended kingly frame around the book (Pss 42–45, 69–72).

Eaton argues that since the individual in Ps 42-43 deals with nations (Ps 43:1) and leads in the progression, he cannot be a regular individual, but is more likely a king. What say ye? CM

SOURCES:
Mays, James Luther. Psalms. Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching. Louisville: John Knox, 1994, pg 234.
Eaton, John H. The Psalms: A Historical and Spiritual Commentary with an Introduction and New Translation. London: T&T Clark, 2003. pp 180, 259, 260