Psalm 17:1-9 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 17:1-9 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Hear a just cause, O Lord; attend to my cry; give ear to my prayer from lips free of deceit.
Verse 2From you let my vindication come; let your eyes see the right.
Verse 3If you try my heart, if you visit me by night, if you test me, you will find no wickedness in me; my mouth does not transgress.
Verse 4As for what others do, by the word of your lips I have avoided the ways of the violent.
Verse 5My steps have held fast to your paths; my feet have not slipped.
Verse 6I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me, hear my words.
Verse 7Wondrously show your steadfast love, O savior of those who seek refuge from their adversaries at your right hand.
Verse 8Guard me as the apple of the eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings,
Verse 9from the wicked who despoil me, my deadly enemies who surround me.
Devotion
David was between a rock and a hard place — literally, seeking shelter in caves and behind stones. His adversary was also his king, the one who was supposed to protect him. Yet in his wisdom, David knows better than to fully trust Saul’s hollow promises of security. Instead, he turns to God for help. He finds confidence in his relationship with the Lord. He calls on God boldly, knowing God will listen and respond. That gives David the reassurance he needs in times of trouble.
Do you find yourself searching for a place to hide — from pressure at work, the incessant demands of children, bombastic political ads, your own inner demons? How about turning to God for help? Look for confidence in your relationship with the Lord. In him, you will find rest, safety, security and courage.
Prayer
Lord, be my source of strength when it feels the whole world is against me. Help me to turn to you for support instead of trusting in my own feeble abilities. Make me confident like David in your power and in your great love. Amen.