We all think that what we want, the way we think something should be, is a just cause. But is it, really? Lots of things can sound like noble causes, but would they be in God’s eyes? I have been known to think I’m right about something when I’m actually wrong. For example, because texts & emails don’t allow for any verbal cues or body language to help with interpreting the message, they are often misunderstood. I have made the mistake of assuming someone’s intent based on a few words I read on my phone. I have made the mistake of responding unbecomingly – by responding directly to the person with a bad attitude, or worse yet, talking to others about what they sent to me, pleading my “just cause”. I have found myself in the position of having to humble myself and apologize. Maybe you’ve been there, too.

David considered his cause to be just and he wanted God to be the one to vindicate him.

In Psalm 17, David calls on God

To hear him – verse 6b: incline your ear to me; hear my words.”
To show him His love – verse 7a: “Wondrously show your steadfast love,”
To protect him - verse 8: “Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings,”

David also takes a look at himself

Verse 3b: I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.”
Verse 4b: “I have avoided the ways of the violent.”
Verse 5: My steps have held fast to your paths; my feet have not slipped.”

David tells God what his enemies are doing

Verse 9a: “the wicked who do me violence”
Verse 10: “they close their hearts to pity; with their mouths they speak arrogantly.”
Verse 12: “…like a lion eager to tear”

David asks God to stop the wicked

Verses 13: “Arise, O Lord! Confront him, subdue him! Deliver my soul from the wicked by your sword,”

David raises his just cause before God. He fully trusts God will see the good and right as well as the ugly and evil. He believes God will respond justly, because that is His character.