3-2-07 Psalms 17:1

Psalms 17:1 (KJ21)
(A Prayer of David.)
Hear the right, O LORD; attend unto my cry! Give ear unto my prayer, which goeth not out of feigned lips.

Psalms 17:1 (NAS)
(A Prayer of David.)
Hear a just cause, O LORD, give heed to my cry; Give ear to my prayer, which is not from deceitful lips.

Psalms 17:1 (NIVUS)
(A prayer of David)
Hear, O LORD, my righteous plea; listen to my cry. Give ear to my prayer— it does not rise from deceitful lips.

Psalms 17:1(NLT)
(A prayer of David.)
O LORD, hear my plea for justice. Listen to my cry for help. Pay attention to my prayer, for it comes from an honest heart.

You may think that prayer is mysterious and you do not exactly know how to pray. If you look at prayer as only a religious duty that you have to perform, then you may be disappointed in your prayer life. However, if you look at it as a conversation with your best friend, you will probably find it to be more rewarding and enjoyable. You can take a lesson from David, King of Israel. As the beloved of the Lord, he knew the true secret of prayer.

Like David, you are free to approach God's throne and ask Him to hear and give heed to your petitions. If you have a just and righteous cause to present to the Lord, you can be sure that He will listen to your request.
In prayer, you are given the privilege to intercede and intervene for others. The Lord Jehovah will attentively incline His ears toward your ringing cry, supplications, entreaties, proclamations of joy and praises. Whether you are in distress or are exulting and rejoicing, you can safely come before the Lord. However, do not try to deceive or mislead with your prayers. The Lord will know if you are dealing treacherously or using trickery, but if you pray with a right attitude and in faith, the Lord will know that as well.

Prayer is a great privilege, which you should take advantage of often. When you do, your life will be richer and fuller and God's peace will protect your heart.