Safe From Harm
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A Psalm of David.
1Hear the right, O LORD, attend unto my cry,
Give ear unto my prayer, that goeth not out of feigned lips.
2Let my sentence come forth from thy presence;
Let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.
3Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; Thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing;
I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.
4Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.
5Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not.
6I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O God:
Incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech.
7Shew thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust in thee
From those that rise up against them.
8Keep me as the apple of the eye,
Hide me under the shadow of thy wings,
9From the wicked that oppress me,
From my deadly enemies, who compass me about.
10They are inclosed in their own fat:
With their mouth they speak proudly.
11They have now compassed us in our steps:
They have set their eyes bowing down to the earth;
12Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey,
And as it were a young lion lurking in secret places.
13Arise, O LORD, disappoint him, cast him down:
Deliver my soul from the wicked, which is thy sword:
14From men which are thy hand, O LORD, from men of the world,
Which have their portion in this life, and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid treasure:
They are full of children,
And leave the rest of their substance to their babes.
15As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness:
I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
Safe From Harm
Psalm 17 is David’s glorious affirmation of God’s marvelous loving kindness towards His own. God watches over him like a mother bird protects her chicks from harm (15:8). David knows that he will be sheltered from his many enemies encompassing round about him. God is his refuge from the wicked who, like lions, seek to devour him (15:12). David asks God to keep him as the apple of His eye (15:8). Our eyes are possibly the most vulnerable areas of our bodies, so we carefully protect them, shielding them from potential hazards. How much more does God treasure us? David comes to God, reminding himself of His word, which he purposes to keep in his mouth so he would not stray or slip from God’s path (15:3). He feels his cause is just, and he has proven himself as righteous by passing the trials (15:3). David seems to be presenting an argument to God, justifying his right for God’s protection because of his own works. David sees man’s covenant with God as one where, as long as you are keeping your end of the bargain, by keeping God’s commandments, then God will honor His promises by blessing and protecting you. This perspective is not unusual in light of the Old Testament/Covenant of God and man.
However; “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” (John 1:17). In the New Testament, Jesus said that we should worry for nothing because God loves and cares for us more than the birds of the field or the lilies of the valley (Luke 12:22-31). He will provide what we need to eat and wear each day. When we accept Jesus by faith, God extends His grace to us, not because we deserve it. His grace is unmerited. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). He brought us out of darkness into his marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). Now, no matter what enemies or struggles come our way, nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). Nothing. How blessed and at peace and content to know that we can safely abide under His wings.
I would love to hear what this Psalm brings to mind for you! Write back to me in Facebook comment or blog reply.
Disclaimer: The intention of this project is not to teach, but rather to share. Please use due diligence in studying the word of God, and seek guidance from your local religious leaders for any questions or concerns.
Debra Hill
Debra Hill is an independent inspirational singer, author, songwriter, and writer. As a blind performer, she adds a personal story of God’s faithfulness. Her life exemplifies that Christ’s power will work to lift all regardless of circumstances.
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