Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 17

The psalms in this section emphasize integrity and purity (Psalms 17:15; 18:20–26; 19:13–14). They describe people as living in God’s presence (Psalms 16:9–11; 17:15) and remaining steadfast (15:5; 16:8).

The psalmist asks for God's protection and justice, affirms his own integrity, and prays for the Lord to defeat his strong enemies.

comes from lips free of deceit: Deception characterizes the wicked. The righteous reject such deceit as a failure of character and pray for rescue from such people (Psalms 5:6; 43:1; 120:2). They love honesty, truth, and integrity (Psalms 15:2–3; 24:4; 101:7).

The psalmist declares his innocence (Psalm 17:1) and commits himself to integrity by being open to God’s examination.

Although he is not perfect, the psalmist dedicates himself to the Lord. He does not want to sin through lies, flattery, or gossip (see Psalms 10:7; 15:2–3; 17:1).

This prayer for God's care continues the request begun in Psalm 17:1–2 for redemption from evil.

• as the apple of Your eye (literally as the pupil of your eye): This metaphor shows God's care and love for the psalmist (see Deuteronomy 32:10).

• The shadow of God's wings is a place of his protection from enemies and hardship (Psalms 36:7; 57:1; 61:4; 63:7; 91:4).

The psalmist prays confidently for the Lord's victory, knowing God is more powerful than the evildoers. The psalmist finds joy in the Lord's inheritance (Psalm 16:5), whereas the wicked search for joy in this world.

behold Your face: The psalmist does not allow temporary concerns raised by adversaries to stand in the way of his experiencing a real and lasting relationship with the Lord.