Psalm 17

Before reading this devotional, please read through Psalm 17 and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal a new truth to you today.

I call on you, my God, for you will answer me;
turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.
Show me the wonders of your great love,
you who save by your right hand
those who take refuge in you from their foes.
Keep me as the apple of your eye;
hide me in the shadow of your wings
from the wicked who are out to destroy me,
from my mortal enemies who surround me.
Psalm 17: 6-9

David, the author of this Psalm, is called a man after God’s own heart. One thing is clear of his life from studying the Psalms: David was a man of prayer. He goes to prayer in all different
times of need. This psalm is no exception -- he is seeking God in the midst of persecution from his enemies. I love verses 6 through 8 here. In his time of trouble, David turns to God with confidence that God will hear his prayer and answer him. He has learned that confidence through experience. He knows God and he knows God’s faithfulness. In verse 7, he asks God to reveal His marvelous love; we have just finished celebrating God’s love displayed through the
precious blood of Christ. David shows us here that God is the God of salvation; he saves those who trust themselves to him. When you look at yourself in the mirror, if you stare closely at the
dark pupil in the center of your eye (the apple), you will see your image reflected there. Isn’t it amazing and wonderful that the holy and awesome Creator of this universe holds your image in the apple of His eye? He cares for you; He protects and covers you as a mother bird protects her chicks. We should, like David, ask for these things eagerly and confidently expect them to be true.

Prayer Focus
Lord, you are an awesome God! You alone are worthy of my praise. Thank you that you are a God who saves. Thank you for the cross. Thank you that you love me marvelously and that you
hear my prayers. Remind me of all the times you have answered my prayers. Help me when I feel discouraged. When I feel fear or panic, or I start getting annoyed with everyone around me, give me a fresh anointing and help my cup overflow. Remind me that your goodness and love follow me all the days of my life. Thank you. Amen.

Action Steps
1. Journal about ways God has answered your prayers. How have you seen His faithfulness in your life? Praise God for his faithfulness. Cry out to Him with confidence for your current need or situation.
2. Using verse 8 as your inspiration, look intently into the mirror until you can see your reflection in your pupil (the apple of your eye). Read this confession to yourself as you do: