Dr. David Whitaker | Psalm 17
Have you ever been wronged by someone? Has anyone attacked you for no reason? Have you ever been accused of something you didn't do or say? Maybe you were the subject of gossip or slander. It's probably happened to most of us. It hurts deeply and sometimes, it's so deep, it becomes debilitating.
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These questions are provided for your further study and application of this message. It is helpful to discuss your answers with others such as your Community Group, family, friends or an accountability partner.
- What is your take away from this message?
- When have you felt singled out for punishment - by a parent, teacher, boss? When have you been the brunt of someone taking it out on you? Was it ever for something you didn't do? How did you feel then?
- When have you felt scared or terrified? Did your worst fears come true?
- Read Psalm 17. Does David think he is without sin (vv.3-5)? Or is he merely reflecting on a particular issue that he has done right? What is he saying about the one wronging him (vv.9-12)?
- Although he calls on God as a judge (vv.1-5), how does David relate to him (vv.6-9)?
- Of the three things that he prays for - justice (vv.1-5), protection (vv.6-9) and the fellowship and conformity to God (v.15) - what does David desire most? Why do you think so?
- "When I awake" seems to be a metaphor for passing through death to the presence of Christ (Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2).
- On what basis do you make your plea before God: your integrity? The heartlessness of your opponent? God's love? Some combination? Or do you rarely see God as judge?
- What makes the biggest difference in how and why you lived compared to those who don't have a relationship with Jesus Christ: God's love? God's righteousness? God's reward?
- In what situation do you need deliverance from people or forces that seem out to get you? Applying the Scripture to our lives is important. What is the "next step" that God, through this Psalm and Spirit, leading you to take?
- Write out a prayer in response to what the Lord has taught you through this study and what steps in response He might want you to take.
