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Day 121

"From the wicked who oppress me"

Day 121 – Psalm 17

“From the wicked who oppress me” Psalm 17:9

A CLEARER PICTURE

The following text gives us a clearer picture of what David struggled against (Psalm 17).

“From the wicked who oppress me,
From my deadly enemies who surround me.
They have closed up their fat hearts;
With their mouths they speak proudly.
They have now surrounded us in our steps;
They have set their eyes, crouching down to the earth,
As a lion is eager to tear his prey,
And like a young lion lurking in secret places.”
Psalm 17:9-12

1. In plain language

a) There were wicked oppressors.
b) These were deadly enemies.
c) They expressed arrogance in their speech.
d) Their intent to harm David (and others) could not be more obvious.

2. In figurative language

a) The imagery of a lion (or “young lion”) was chosen.
b) The lion is portrayed as a predator (in this text).
c) The danger is well expressed:-
i) The lion has been lurking around.
ii) It has now selected its victim.
iii) He has taken a crouching position.
iv) He is poised to spring on the prey.

The only way to prevent being killed would be by Divine intervention! It would require nothing less than the power of God to prevent a disaster! With all his heart David pleaded for Divine protection from the wicked.