The Daily Office for October 19, 2012
Scripture Readings
Old Testament
Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
Reflection
Psalm 17 is termed a prayer because the language of petition is predominant. David would not have been a man after God’s own heart, had he not been a man of prayer. The time in David’s life to which this psalm belongs is uncertain, but it is quite likely that Saul is the leader of those who oppose him.
In the opening and in other places the psalmist assumes that he is on the right side and has been unjustly persecuted. The earnestness of his prayer is indicated by the word "beg," a word that means a shout or outcry. Having been wrongly judged by his enemies, David weeps and laments, petitioning the Lord to declare him "innocent" since only God's eyes "can see the truth." By the end, his faith is affirmed. The motives of the psalmist have been tested by the Lord, examined closely, and proven to be true. By attending carefully to the Word of God, David knew that he had avoided the plans of the wicked ones.
Collect for the Day
Almighty God, who by your Holy Spirit gave Henry Martyn a longing to tell the good news of Christ and skill to translate the Scriptures: by the same Spirit give us grace to offer you our gifts, wherever you may lead, at whatever the cost; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.