Homeschool Moms Teach the Psalms (Psalm 15-21)Sample

Day 3

Psalm 17

Satisfied with His Likeness

I love the book of Psalms because the writer (in this case, David) reveals the emotional ups and downs of life and yet always ends up with strong professions of worship. No matter how he feels, or what enemy he faces, the overwhelming themes throughout are vivid declarations of honor and glory for God’s protection, deliverance, goodness, and mercy. Psalm 23:6 sums it up this way: Your goodness and mercy follow me all the days of my life.

We often feel that no one understands the enemies that attack us, nor do we understand why they often prosper. But David repeatedly paints the picture that God sees and God hears and avenges. He keeps, He hides, and He delivers. Verse 8, which is the very middle verse of Psalm 17, says: "Keep me as the apple of Your eye; Hide me under the shadow of Your wings." The words keep and hide are repeated throughout the Psalms (keep = preserve, guard, protect: Psalm 12:7; 19:13; 140:4; 141:9. hide: Psalm 27:5; 31:20; 32:7; 119:114). 

David knows that no matter the enemy, he is hidden and kept - as are we.

When we feel the enemy’s strong attacks, we must realize our God is stronger. When the enemy seems to be winning, God remains the Victor. 

In this Psalm, David’s eyes meet God’s eyes and he sees His justice in the midst of his enemy prospering. He reminds himself, and we should remember too, that it will all be worth it when we “see Your face in righteousness; and I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness.” 

To Do With The Kids:

Have your child copy Psalm 17:5 “Uphold my steps in Your paths, that my footsteps may not slip” on a piece of paper. Then have him draw an outline of a person. As you read Psalm 17 together, write the number of the verse(s) on the area of the body that is mentioned. Discuss why our bodies were created (to worship and glorify God). Memorize Psalm 17:5 together. Ask what are some things that could make your foot slip. Study the hymn, On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand and the songwriter, Edward Mote.