Have you ever been in a situation where you are innocent, yet you are being accused or persecuted? Psalm 17 is David's prayer that is formed in a psalm (song) that expresses his innocence before God and asks for deliverance from his enemies. David prayed, "O Lord, hear my plea for justice. Listen to my cry for help. Pay attention to my prayer, for it comes from honest lips. Declare me innocent, for you see those who do right (Psalm 17:1-2). In the midst of his difficulties, he put his faith in God. He continued his prayer, "I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray. Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. By your mighty power, you rescue those who seek refuge from their enemies. Guard me as you would guard your own eyes. Hide me in the shadow of your wings. Protect me from wicked people who attack me, from murderous enemies who surround me (Psalm 17:6-9).
David understood that only God could protect him from his enemies. There are situations that the only thing that we can do is to pray to God to protect us from those who are attacking us. We may have people around us that are not nice to us. They may be bullying or threatening us for no reason. King Saul tried to destroy David because he was jealous of David, and he tried to get rid of David because he was chosen to be the next king of Israel. David fled from King Saul, but he was pursued relentlessly. David had not done anything wrong against King Saul, yet he was hunted down like a wild animal. David found safety in God. He believed that God would protect him and eventually deal with his enemies.
When we encounter this kind of situation, we can pray to God for protection and deliverance. We can also pray for those who persecute us that their hearts will change. Always remember that God is our refuge in times of trouble. He can deliver and avenge us. Let us continue to put our faith in God.
Ask yourself these questions for application: (Think through carefully and meditate on the questions while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you). What should I do when I am being persecuted? What can I learn from David's situation? Who is my refuge in times of trouble?
Write down all the worries you face today and lift them up to God.
Prayer:
Father in Heaven, thank you that you are my protector and avenger. I pray for those who are not nice to me that you will change their hearts. I pray for their salvation if they do not believe in you. Please give me the right attitude and wisdom on how to deal with my situation. In your name, Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen.