They remind us that no matter how hostile or oppressive our circumstances may seem, God is the sure refuge who is ever ready to defend those who call on His name.
In this prayerful psalm attributed to King David—who reigned in Israel around 1010 - 970 BC and wrote many psalms focusing on his trust and dependence on the LORD (he is said to have written 73 psalms)—we read these desperate words: “They have now surrounded us in our steps; They set their eyes to cast us down to the ground” (v.11). Here, David vividly describes a situation in which enemies close in around him, hoping to strike with a crushing blow. Although geographically unspecified, his language conveys a feeling of being trapped with no visible escape, reminding us that he is often found seeking divine intervention amid peril (Psalm 3, Psalm 9:1, Psalm 27:1).
By saying “They have now surrounded us in our steps” (v.11), David underscores that his foes watch him wherever he goes, eager to catch him off guard. This unwavering hostility suggests that the king’s trials were not momentary but extended and relentless. As a man after God’s own heart, David consistently turns to the LORD for deliverance rather than relying on his own strength. His practice here teaches the reader that when we feel beset by adversity or hemmed in by circumstances, we can likewise call upon the Lord, who sees all and stands ready to protect and guide those who seek Him.
In the concluding phrase, “They set their eyes to cast us down to the ground” (v.11), David depicts a concrete goal of his enemies: total defeat. Yet, the psalm will go on to stress God’s surpassing power. By turning to God, David reaffirms a central biblical theme: the LORD is the one who has ultimate authority over our well-being. Though danger prowls close, faith in the Almighty can bring assurance despite threatening appearances.
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Psalms 17:11 meaning
In this prayerful psalm attributed to King David—who reigned in Israel around 1010 - 970 BC and wrote many psalms focusing on his trust and dependence on the LORD (he is said to have written 73 psalms)—we read these desperate words: “They have now surrounded us in our steps; They set their eyes to cast us down to the ground” (v.11). Here, David vividly describes a situation in which enemies close in around him, hoping to strike with a crushing blow. Although geographically unspecified, his language conveys a feeling of being trapped with no visible escape, reminding us that he is often found seeking divine intervention amid peril (Psalm 3, Psalm 9:1, Psalm 27:1).
By saying “They have now surrounded us in our steps” (v.11), David underscores that his foes watch him wherever he goes, eager to catch him off guard. This unwavering hostility suggests that the king’s trials were not momentary but extended and relentless. As a man after God’s own heart, David consistently turns to the LORD for deliverance rather than relying on his own strength. His practice here teaches the reader that when we feel beset by adversity or hemmed in by circumstances, we can likewise call upon the Lord, who sees all and stands ready to protect and guide those who seek Him.
In the concluding phrase, “They set their eyes to cast us down to the ground” (v.11), David depicts a concrete goal of his enemies: total defeat. Yet, the psalm will go on to stress God’s surpassing power. By turning to God, David reaffirms a central biblical theme: the LORD is the one who has ultimate authority over our well-being. Though danger prowls close, faith in the Almighty can bring assurance despite threatening appearances.