Apple of God’s Eye
Have you ever heard of the expression “apple of the eye?” It means the centre of one’s attention and affection. The people of God are the apple of His eye. In this psalm David petitions God for protection and rescue from the wicked that are surrounding him (17:8-9).
David begins by asking God to give heed to his prayers for he has been faithful (17:1-5). He asks God to demonstrate His love by protecting him like hen protects her chicks (17:8). He pleads for protection and deliverance from the wicked, who prowl about like a lion seeking to devour him (17:12). Brethren, in times of distress evaluate your life to see if you are being faithful to the Lord. We bring much trouble on ourselves by our own sinful actions. If you are blameless, then trust that God is bringing this trial for your own good. He will hear your prayers and never cease to love you.
Know also, that the wicked of the world will face the judgement that they deserve (17:13).
They are satisfied with the treasures of this world; what they have accumulated and are content with leaving it to their children (17:14). Their treasure is their god and their appetites lead to their own destruction. This life, and this life alone, is the wicked’s portion and inheritance (17:14).
The righteous, in contrast, are to live satisfied lives focused on the eternal rather than the temporal. Brethren, our portion is God Himself. Love Him, trust in Him, and know that you are loved. The inheritance that we have is not of this world; it is an eternal inheritance waiting for us (1 peter 1:4). David says when his early days are over, he will see God’s face and be satisfied forever and ever (17:15).