Psalm 17:15

As for me, I will behold Your face in righteousness; when I awake, I will be satisfied in Your presence.

Study Bible

As for me, I will behold Your face in righteousness;
This phrase reflects a personal declaration of faith and hope. The psalmist, traditionally understood to be David, contrasts his own trust in God with the wickedness of his adversaries. The desire to "behold Your face" signifies a deep longing for communion with God, which is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 27:4, 42:2). In biblical times, seeing God's face was synonymous with experiencing His favor and presence (Numbers 6:24-26). The mention of "righteousness" indicates that this vision of God is not based on human merit but on a right standing with God, which is a gift from God Himself. This anticipates New Testament teachings on righteousness through faith (Romans 3:22).

when I awake,
The phrase "when I awake" can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically. Literally, it may refer to waking from sleep, suggesting a daily renewal of faith and hope in God's presence. Metaphorically, it can be seen as an allusion to resurrection or the afterlife, where the believer anticipates a fuller realization of God's presence. This aligns with Job 19:26, where Job expresses hope in seeing God after his death. The concept of awakening to a new, eternal life is further developed in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).

I will be satisfied in Your presence.
Satisfaction in God's presence implies a deep, spiritual fulfillment that transcends earthly desires and needs. This satisfaction is a recurring biblical theme, where true contentment is found not in material wealth or human achievement but in a relationship with God (Psalm 16:11, 63:5). The psalmist's confidence in being satisfied reflects a trust in God's provision and faithfulness. This ultimate satisfaction is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are promised eternal joy and fulfillment in God's presence (Revelation 21:3-4). The phrase also points to the eschatological hope of dwelling with God, a promise fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who reconciles humanity to God (John 14:3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of this Psalm, David is expressing his deep desire for a righteous relationship with God and the ultimate satisfaction found in His presence.

2. God
The central figure in this verse, God is the one whose face David longs to behold, representing a close and intimate relationship.

3. Righteousness
This is the state of being morally right or justifiable, which David seeks as a means to behold God's face.

4. Awakening
This can be interpreted as both a literal awakening from sleep and a metaphorical awakening to eternal life or spiritual enlightenment.

5. Presence of God
The ultimate satisfaction and fulfillment that David anticipates, which is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms.

Teaching Points

Pursuit of Righteousness
David's desire to behold God's face in righteousness challenges us to pursue a life that aligns with God's standards.

Eternal Perspective
The anticipation of awakening to God's presence encourages believers to maintain an eternal perspective, valuing spiritual fulfillment over temporal satisfaction.

Intimacy with God
The longing to be satisfied with God's presence highlights the importance of cultivating a deep, personal relationship with Him through prayer and worship.

Hope in Resurrection
The concept of awakening can be seen as a foreshadowing of the resurrection, offering hope and assurance of eternal life with God.

Contentment in God Alone
David's satisfaction in God's presence serves as a reminder that true contentment is found not in earthly possessions or achievements, but in God alone.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's desire to behold God's face in righteousness challenge your current spiritual pursuits?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a deeper intimacy with God in your daily life?

3. How does maintaining an eternal perspective influence your decisions and priorities?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to pursue righteousness in your personal and professional life?

5. How does the hope of resurrection and eternal life with God impact your understanding of satisfaction and contentment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 John 3:2
This verse speaks about seeing God as He is, which parallels David's desire to behold God's face in righteousness.

Matthew 5:8
Jesus' teaching on the pure in heart seeing God connects to the theme of righteousness and the vision of God.

Philippians 3:9-11
Paul's desire to be found in Christ and to know Him intimately echoes David's longing for righteousness and satisfaction in God's presence.

Revelation 22:4
The promise that God's servants will see His face in the new creation aligns with David's hope of awakening to God's presence.