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Illustration for Psalm 17: A Plea for Justice

Psalm 17

A Plea for Justice

When AfraidComfortProtection

David prays and asks God to listen because he knows his heart is honest. He asks God to protect him 'like the apple of His eye' — which means something very precious and special. God hides His people safely under His wings.

  1. 1Hear my righteous plea, O LORD; listen to my cry. Give ear to my prayer— from lips free of deceit.
  2. 2May my vindication come from Your presence; may Your eyes look on what is right.
  3. 3Though You have tested my heart and examined me at night, though You have tried me, You find nothing. I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.
  4. 4As for the deeds of men— by the word of Your lips I have avoided the ways of the violent.
  5. 5My steps have held to Your paths; my feet have not stumbled.
  6. 6I call on You, O God, for You will answer me; incline Your ear to me and hear my prayer.
  7. 7Show the wonder of Your loving devotion, O Savior of those who take refuge at Your right hand from their foes.
  8. 8Guard me as the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings
  9. 9from the wicked who assail me, from my mortal enemies who surround me.
  10. 10They close up their callous hearts; with their mouths they speak arrogantly.
  11. 11They have now surrounded our steps; they set their eyes to drive us to the ground.
  12. 12They are like a lion eager to tear his prey, like a young lion lurking in hiding.
  13. 13Rise up, O LORD, confront them and bring them down; deliver my soul from the wicked by Your sword,
  14. 14from men by Your hand, O LORD, from men of the world whose portion is in this life. You fill their bellies with Your treasure; their children are satisfied, and they store up wealth for their offspring.
  15. 15As for me, I will see Your face in righteousness; I will be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness.

What it means

God treasures you — He calls you the 'apple of His eye,' the most precious thing He watches over. When trouble comes, you can ask Him to hide you under His wings, the safest place there is.

A little prayer

Lord, thank You that You treasure me like the apple of Your eye. When I'm in trouble, hide me in the shadow of Your wings. Keep me close and safe today. Amen.

Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible (BSB)