In this prayer from David, He understands that his protection may come long after he is dead, and his reward for remaining faithful to God will be awakening to the presence of the Lord. Here’s the psalm in its entirety: “O Lord, hear my plea for justice. Listen to my cry for help. Pay attention to my prayer, for it comes from an honest heart. Declare me innocent, for you know those who do right.
You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night. You have scrutinized me and found nothing amiss, for I am determined not to sin in what I say. I have followed your commands, which have kept me from going along with cruel and evil people. My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you. (Yes, Lord! Help us keep our eyes on you.)
I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. (Yes!!! If we remain faithful to you, Lord, you will answer all of our prayers!) Bend down and listen as I pray. Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. You save with your strength those who seek refuge from their enemies. Guard me as the apple of your eye. Hide me in the shadow of your wings. Protect me from wicked people who attack me, from murderous enemies who surround me.
They are without pity. Listen to their boasting. They track me down, surround me, and throw me to the ground. They are like hungry lions, eager to tear me apart – like young lions in hiding, waiting for their chance.
Arise, O Lord! Stand against them and bring them to their knees! Rescue me from the wicked with your sword! Save me by your mighty hand, O Lord, from those whose only concern is earthly gain. (Wow…that’s all they want, Frank…just earthly gain. We were just talking about how the enemy attacks us yesterday! God is good!) May they have their punishment in full. May their children inherit more of the same, and may the judgment continue to their children’s children.
But because I have done what is right, I will see you. When I awake, I will be fully satisfied, for I will see you face to face. (Psalm 17) (Wow! That is powerful! David knows that no matter how his enemies move against him, his true reward and satisfaction will come after his death when he will see the Lord face to face. Lord, you are awesome!)
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Help us have that end-of-life perspective that David had. Help us know that when we pray, you will answer, and no matter what our enemies do...we will trust in you, knowing that when our life is over, we will see you. Lord, we love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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