Definition: Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 35:17 together. This is a really powerful and emotional passage of prayer. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse expresses deep worry and desperation about someone being threatened or harmed. It’s a plea for protection and reassurance from a difficult situation. Let's unpack it word by word: “Lord, how long wilt thou look on?” – This is the core of the plea. “Look on” means to watch, to observe, to see something happen. The speaker is asking God how much longer He will allow this situation to continue. They’re feeling a profound sense of worry that it won't end. “rescue my soul from their destructions…” – This refers to someone or something being harmed by evil, misfortune, or danger. “Destructions” means being ruined, damaged, or destroyed. The speaker is asking for God to save them from this harm. “my darling from the lions.” – This is a very striking and emotional image. “Lions” are powerful and dangerous animals. The speaker is expressing that they are in immediate danger from these lions - representing a difficult or threatening person or situation. It’s a metaphor for facing overwhelming hardship or pain. Overall Meaning & Tone: The verse conveys a feeling of intense anxiety, fear, and dependence on God. It speaks to the vulnerability of someone who feels helpless against a powerful force. The speaker is asking for God's protection and intervention in their life, offering a desperate plea for safety. In essence, it’s a heartfelt expression of profound worry and reliance on God’s grace and protection. --- Would you like me to: Explain the context of Psalm 35? Discuss the meaning of the imagery used (like the lions)? Give you some related Bible verses about trust in God?