We’re told that this Psalm was written by David while he was being persecuted by Saul. So how does that apply to us, our family at Christ City? Are any of us being murderously pursued by someone who not only wants to take our lives, but to destroy our reputations? Probably not now. Maybe not in this lifetime. Or maybe just not in a physical sense. But as David points out that his “mortal enemies” (vs. 9) “are like a lion hungry for prey” (vs. 12), I can’t help but think of the warning in I Peter 5:8 where we’re told that our enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
So knowing that we have in common with David a vicious and dangerous enemy, let’s note that his prayer originates in a sense of desperation, yet also based in confidence. His devotion had him sure of the righteousness of his plea. While he didn’t claim to be sinless, he was confident that his resolution not to sin was pleasing to God. He wasn’t reluctant to call on God, knowing that God would hear his prayer. He wasn’t shy about asking God to show His love (vs. 7) and to keep him as the apple of His eye; hiding him in the shadow of His wings (vs. 8).
David acknowledges God’s sovereignty when he asks God by His hand to save (vs. 14). Lastly, David rests in the knowledge that his ultimate satisfaction will occur upon seeing God in heaven (vs. 15).
Our enemy wants us to despair, just as he wanted David to despair. Like David, our prayers for God’s deliverance can be submitted more confidently and boldly when we’re focused on God’s will being done on earth as it is in heaven. And like David, we can be at peace in the middle of the storm, because we know that God will deliver – maybe now – maybe later – but absolutely when it matters most: in eternity. Psalm 17 applies to us.
- Lynn P.