A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 52

Text: Psalm 17

A PLEA TO BE KEPT BY THE LORD

In the battle against evil, one of the most important things to remember is to ask to be kept by the Lord. David wisely and humbly prayed,

"Keep me as the apple of Your eye;
Hide me under the shadow of Your wings."
Psalm 17:8

1. The apple of God's eye

This phrase was an ancient one. Moses was the one who first used this phrase. We find this phrase in the book of Deuteronomy.

"He found him in the desert land,
And in the wasteland, a howling wilderness;
He encircled him, He instructed him,
He kept him as the apple of His eye."
Deuteronomy 32:10

David showed that he was a man who knew his Scriptures! The best prayer one can offer is surely one that has its roots in the Word of God!

2. The imagery of an Eagle

The imagery of God as an eagle also dates back to Moses! Let us ponder this beautiful description of how the Lord cared for His people. This text used the imagery of an eagle carefully watching over the egrets as they learn to fly.

"As an eagle stirs up its nest,
Hovers over its young,
Spreading out its wings, taking them up,
Carrying them on its wings,
So the Lord led him…"
Deuteronomy 32:11-12

The point of this imagery is not without significance. How we must treasure what God promises in His word!

3. "Hide me under the shadow of Your wings"

This is just an extension of the original imagery used by Moses. This application made by David is correct and most fitting. He expressed recognition of his need to be kept and protected by the Lord!

KEPT BY THE POWER OF GOD

Let us recall to mind another word of encouragement about being kept by the Lord. The Apostle Peter wrote a most encouraging general epistle to all the faithful children of God who suffered terribly under the pogroms initiated by those who hated Christianity.

"Who are kept by the power of God through faith…"
1 Peter 1:5

We are not alone in our battle against evil. We are wondrously kept by God!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~