Human satisfactions are only temporary and are often short lived. As we read the Psalms of David and reflect on his life, we see how in his youth he was something of outcast from his family (1 Samuel 16:11; 17:28) and then an outcast because of Saul’s jealousy. But this was good for David, because he learnt to rely on God; his prayers to his Creator were genuine outpourings of the heart. Look at how Psalm 17 starts, “Hear a just cause, O LORD, attend to my cry! Give ear to my prayer from lips free of deceit! From your presence let my vindication come”.

In shepherding and defending his father’s flock, David developed a sense of awe for his God. This led him to compose the words, “When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him …” (Psalm 8:3,4). David had developed an awareness and faith in God, wonderfully evident to others as he went forward in absolute faith to face Goliath, but did many appreciate this?

Returning to Psalm 17 we see his prayer is, “Wondrously show your steadfast love, O Saviour of those who seek refuge from their adversaries … from men of the world whose portion is in this life” (verses 7,14).

We are surrounded by those who see this life as all they have. They are not our adversaries but we have little in common with those who are satisfied with all that this life has to offer. However, can we do more to encourage them to see our existence from David’s and our perspective?

Finally, look at the last verse, “As for me, I shall behold your face in righteousness; when I awake, I shall be satisfied with your likeness”. Utterly wonderful – beyond our comprehension … think of meeting David after the resurrection! Ponder prayerfully the prospect of being satisfied in a way that is far beyond any comparison with this life.