Protect my soul and rescue
me, let me not be ashamed for I have taken refuge in You. Integrity and
uprightness will protect me, for I have hoped in You.
In this heartfelt
supplication for deliverance, King David reveals the secret of his steadfast
faith in HaShem. "Protect my soul and rescue me," that is, I will not be put to
shame because I sincerely desire to be a "Servant of HaShem." Since HaShem knows
that my every desire is to serve Him - He will grant my
request.
Regardless of the responsibility of his kingship as well as the
many troubles that He endured, King David always kept focused on the purpose of
his existence - to serve HaShem with a full heart. Therefore, he knew that
HaShem would answer his prayer - "protect and save him" so that he could
continuously advance in his Divine service.
In addition, King David
realized that the purity of his heart and his upright deeds would keep him on
the path of humility. Therefore, he also prayed, "Integrity and uprightness will
protect me, for I have hoped in You." Accordingly, not only was he a dedicated
servant of HaShem, even more, his good deeds and sterling character were
pleasing to HaShem.
The combination of his devotion to HaShem and his
spiritual purity assured King David that he would find great favor and
compassion in the eyes of HaShem. He was absolutely confident that HaShem would
protect and rescue him.
Mussar study awakens our hearts to both
strengthen our service to HaShem and purify our souls. May our study of Mussar
spiritually uplift us so that all of our prayers are answered. (Based on the
commentary of the Ibn Ezra)
TODAY’S IMPLEMENT: Rededicate yourself to
serve HaShem and offer a prayer - filled with confidence that HaShem will answer
you.
Important Numbers
