11,12 Apr -- Satisfaction guaranteed!

The readings for Wed 11 and Thurs 12 April are -- Ex 3:1-4:31; Ps 17:13-15; Prov 3:27-28; Mt 19:23-20:19.

Psalm 17 is titled "A Prayer of David". And what a prayer it is! Verse 13 is nothing unusual. It expresses the same plea we have already seen in several of David's psalms -- Rise up LORD and punish the wicked and deliver me from them. The next verse is very unusual though, and almost seems to express the opposite idea. One likely interpretation is that David is saying let "those whose only concern is earthly gain" (NLT) have what they want. David knows he will be far better off. He expresses that in the amazing final verse and climax of the psalm -- "But because I have done what is right, I will see you. When I awake, I will be fully satisfied, for I will see you face to face." (NLT).

The Hebrew word translated "satisfaction" occurs in both verse 14 and 15, contrasting the merely earthly satisfaction of the unGodly with David's full satisfaction. How much better the satisfaction of God's eternal presence than the temporary satisfaction worldly pleasures. That old song by Alison Krauss puts it well.
I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold
I'd rather be his than have riches untold...
Than to be the king of a vast domain
Or be held in sins dread sway
I'd rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today.