Praise Him in My Obedience
You are the Apple of His Eye

Scripture Reading: Psalm 17:1-8

Key Verse: Psalm 17:3

Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.

Our scripture for today reminds us that God probes our hearts and examines us, as we walk with God.  When the Psalmist wrote the words “at night,” he was referring to the times of trouble and struggle in his life.  The scriptures often use the word “night” as a symbol of tough times.  In Psalm 30, David wrote: “…weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”  In other words, God uses the troubles in this world—the struggles of your life—to probe and examine your determination to trust Him.

Note what David determined to never do: “I have resolved that my mouth will not sin” (vs. 3). He goes on to write: “Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings” (vs. 8).  David was basically saying that he would continue to praise God with his obedience.  David knew that this life caused troubles and he prepared himself for them.  This preparation included a predetermined mind that he would not sin with his lips, but that he would praise God with his lips.

Let’s prepare our minds and hearts for this day.  Troubles are coming; things are not all going to go as we hope.  People are going to not only disappoint us, but they may attack us.  Are you ready?  Are you determined to not sin, but rather praise the God who will defend you?

Father, I am ready for this day.  Whatever comes, I am determined to praise you with my obedience!  In Jesus’ name, amen.