Psalm 17: A Prayer for Justice for the Innocent

At times everyone feels like misunderstandings have besmirched one’s reputation with false accusations and he is innocent of the perceived charges. Like the importunate widow before the unjust judge in Jesus’ parable he seeks justice and vindication. Jesus makes it clear: God will answer speedily. In Psalm 17 we learn that we can trust His lovingkindness to be just and put things right; for always in Christ, the only Innocent One, God justly forgives and makes it right.

The Prowling Lion may disguise himself as a friend, or even one’s self, who exposes both true and false guilt and shame. The Lord protects me, as the apple of His eye, from this deadly spiritual enemy and delivers my soul. (Note: it is always important to distinguish the real enemy from the human instruments, self or others, that he uses.).

Finally for me the Lord answers: I will see His face (be in His Presence) in righteousness, and when I awake (from sleep, from death, or from the crisis) I will be satisfied with His likeness, that is, I am restored to a right relationship with God.