Psalms
Summary
Psalm 17 is a prayer for protection and vindication from a man of integrity facing wicked pursuers. David appeals to God's justice, asking Him to "hear the right" and test his heart. He describes himself as one who has kept his feet from the paths of the violent and now pleads for God to show His "unfailing love" by hiding him under the shadow of His wings. David famously asks to be kept as "the apple of your eye" and concludes with the hope that, unlike the worldly who find their portion in this life, he will be satisfied by seeing God's face in righteousness.
Hear my plea for justice, O LORD; attend to my cry! Give ear to my prayer, which does not come from deceitful lips.
Let my vindication come from your presence; let your eyes see what is right.
Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.
As for the deeds of others, by the word of your lips I have kept myself from the ways of the violent.
My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not slipped.
I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.
Show the wonders of your unfailing love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their enemies.
Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings
from the wicked who assail me, from my deadly enemies who surround me.
They close up their callous hearts, and their mouths speak with pride.
They have tracked me down, they now surround me, with eyes alert to throw me to the ground.
They are like a lion hungry for prey, like a great lion crouching in cover.
Rise up, O LORD, confront them, bring them down; with your sword rescue me from the wicked.
By your hand, O LORD, rescue me from such men, from men of this world whose portion is in this life. You still the hunger of those you cherish; their children have plenty, and they store up wealth for their little ones.
As for me, I will behold your face in righteousness; I will be satisfied, when I awake, with seeing your likeness.