Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 17

1-5: A Prayer for Justice

David opens his plea to the LORD by arguing that his case is just and his lips are clean. He presents to the LORD as evidence his heart (thoughts), his mouth (words), and his hands (deeds) as confirmation that he has kept to His ways.

6-12: A Prayer for Deliverance

Next, David calls on God to show His faithfulness by delivering him from his enemies whose hearts, mouths, and works are wicked and violent. He asks God to keep him as the “apple of His eye”. He knows he’s only safe under God’s watchful protection

13-15: The LORD’s Just Rewards

He concludes his prayers by pleading for salvation and reaffirming the LORD’s goodness, even to the wicked. David, however, is content to only behold the LORD’s face and be in His presence at all times, day and night.

A prayer for the LORD’s help must begin with an honest assessment of one’s condition before God, before proceeding to ask for salvation and deliverance. The LORD only acts on the basis of His just and righteous character.