As For Me

David was in a dog-eat-dog culture (Ps. 17:13-14).

But he decided to live differently.

He wouldn’t take on the rivalry and self-interest of his surroundings. He resolved instead to walk in the righteousness and satisfaction of his God (Ps. 17:3-5).

The difference came down to David’s focal point.

The soul doesn’t have to grow toxic in a toxic environment. But when we focus on the adverse conditions over the Advocate, we take on the attitude of the atmosphere.

Is your heart declining to the social standard? Or is it rising to the perspective and power of God?

David stayed pure because he made a decision:

“As for me, I shall behold your face …” (Ps. 17:15)

David chose to look up: "As for me ..."

What about you? Where will you look?

Before you can face your conditions with confidence, you have to turn away from them. Turn and enter the tent, as Moses did. Tie up the entrance behind you. Leave the thorny conditions behind. And in the comfort of the secret place, gaze at your Maker—until, at last, your face begins to shine.

“When I awake, I shall be satisfied with your likeness.” (Ps. 17:15)

You don't need satisfaction in the surroundings if you've already found it in the secret place.

The first look of your day frames what follows. The moment you open your eyes, fix them on God—and all you see after will fall within the frame of his perspective.