SPIRITUAL GEMS: Week 4 to March 10, 2024, Psalms 16 to 17, Answers.

SPIRITUAL GEMS: March 4-10, 2024, Psalms 16 to 17, Answers.

Spiritual Gems (10 min.)

Psa 17:8. What does the expression “the apple of your eye” mean? (it-2 491).

In this case, it refers to the pupil and is used in a graphic and delicate way to illustrate the need to protect something valuable with extreme care. In the Bible, both Deuteronomy 32:10 and Psalms 17:8, this expression is used to describe God's relationship with Israel and the psalmist's request for protection, respectively. 

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This expression refers to how we take care of and protect our eyes because they are so delicate and sensitive. In the same way, the Bible uses the expression "Apple of the eye" in a graphic and delicate way, when referring to something that must be protected and consumed carefully.

This has various meanings depending on the context, depending on the verse. The Bible uses this expression to refer to what must be protected with care as we do with our eyes, which are very sensitive. For example, Proverbs 7:2 says that we must treat God's law with care.

The expression "The apple of your eye" is illustrated in the Bible as a way of indicating what is very valuable, delicate and worthy of protection. The Bible uses this expression to refer primarily to God's law. And by extension to the people of Israel and David himself, to show the love and care that Jehovah gave them.

This expression also refers to something extremely precious and valuable, something that must be protected with great care, the reference compares it to the pupil in the eye. In the Bible, this expression is used to illustrate the care with which God's law must be treated.

Another example is that it is used as paternal care by God for his people Israel. In Deuteronomy 32:10, he says that he cared for them like the apple of his eye. So it is a biblical expression, now here in Psalm 17:8 King David prayed to God that he would take care of him, protect him as if he were the apple of his eye. Whose is it? from his enemies, he desired that Jehovah would act quickly on his behalf when he was attacked by his enemies. So his eyes are valuable, Jehovah Sees his servants as valuable, and just as one takes care of his eyes, God also takes care of his servants.

In Hebrew the phrase is translated as "little man, daughter of the eye" or "girl of the eyeball." This expression refers to the pupil, the most delicate and sensitive part of the eye, which must be protected with great care.

When David prays in Psalm 17:8 for God to protect him like “the girl with the ball of an eye,” he is expressing his desire to be cared for and protected by God up close and personal. David recognizes the fragility of his situation in the face of enemies and seeks divine intervention for his immediate protection. Therefore, this expression reflects David's deep trust in God's protection and care in times of danger.

In many texts of the Bible this expression of The apple of your eye is also used, for example in Deuteronomy it is also used to refer that, just as the pupil is extremely delicate and sensitive, the law of God must be treated with the same care. and protection. And in Deuteronomy 32:10, this expression is used to describe how God protects Israel as the apple of his eye. which denotes the level of love and care that God has for his people.

David prayed that God would protect him and take care of them as if it were the girl with the eyeball. He desired that Jehovah would act quickly on his behalf when he was attacked by the enemy. Then we clearly notice that God uses this figure to show that he cares for us as the most precious thing.

What spiritual pearls have you found in this week's Bible reading?

Psalms 16:1. By asking for protection we show that we trust in Jehovah and although he does not guarantee the absence of problems, he does guarantee that he is with us in the midst of them. The lesson here is that Jehovah's protection can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including inner strength, comfort, and guidance through his word. That way he can be with us.

Psalms 16:11. This text teaches us that being true Christians makes us feel happy and satisfied. When we love Jehovah, serving him does not seem like a heavy burden and thinking about the message of the Kingdom makes us very happy, because Jehovah promises us that his Kingdom will soon end this evil world and bring us a paradise. Also spending time with our brothers helps us serve God with joy.

Psalms 16:9. This text makes us see that when we are servants of Jehovah we are happy, because by serving Jehovah we come to have his guidance and blessing.

Psalms 16:8. This text reinforces our trust in our God Jehovah, while we are on his side he will protect us and we can be sure that he will always be on our side.

Psalms 16:7. Because Jehovah is a good father and he loves us, sometimes he corrects us. David appreciated that correction. He meditated on the counsels of God and strove to learn to think like him. We, in the same way, must allow these pieces of advice to shape us, that is, to change us and make us a better person.

Psalms 16:5,6. As we noted his life found his portion in the most high God, for him his most precious possession was to have an approved relationship with Jehovah and to be able to serve Him.

Psalms 16:3. David knew that the secret to making true friends was to choose them from those who loved Jehovah. That's why he called us Saints, because they strove to follow God's moral standards and he said that being with them gave him delight, that is, it was pleasant to him.

Psalms 16:4. In the text we observe that we should not worship any other God, only Jehovah deserves honor and praise.

Psalms 16:2. In the verse we can see that David knew that everything good came from Jehovah, we in the same way can be grateful for everything that Jehovah gives us.

Psalms 16:1. In the text we can clearly see that David was completely grateful to be a friend of Jehovah, which is why he took refuge in him. We can imitate this great example and always take refuge in Jehovah.

Psalms 16:11. In this verse, David expresses his trust in God and the blessings that come from staying close to him and serving him. The lesson we can draw from this verse is that by staying close to God and serving Him faithfully, we will experience a future full of joy and blessings. This means trusting God's direction in our lives, even though many people think that what we do is in vain or we are wasting our lives, we must live in accordance with his principles and commandments of Jehovah.

Psalms 16:8. David expresses his commitment to always keep God before him as a guide and protector in his life. The lesson we can extract from this verse is the importance of keeping God present in all our decisions and actions. This involves considering how our decisions and actions can affect our relationship with God, and seeking to act in a way that is honorable and pleasing in his sight.

Psalms 16:4. We see that David recognizes the importance of staying away from the worship of other Gods or idols, as this can result in hardship and suffering. The lesson we can draw from this verse is the importance of maintaining an intimate and exclusive relationship with God, without allowing anything or anyone to get in the way of that relationship. This means avoiding any form of idolatry or worship of other gods that may compete with the true and exclusive worship that belongs to Jehovah alone.

Psalms 16:1. It is an example of David's trust and dependence on God as his source of protection and security. In contrast to the world that seeks protection in material things or social status. This psalm reminds us of the importance of trusting in God as our true refuge. This involves recognizing that our deepest spiritual and emotional needs can only be satisfied in an intimate and personal relationship with God.

Psalms 16:4. Today, false religion also generally condones sexual immorality, including homosexuality. even homosexuality. But the results are the same as in biblical times. People believe they are free, but in reality their pain becomes many. Seeing it this way, it is convenient for us to listen to Jehovah and convince ourselves that obeying is better for us. Without forgetting that the consequences of doing bad things are much greater than any temporary pleasure.

Psalms 16:8. On the battlefield, the soldier usually carried the sword in the right hand and the shield in the left. So he left his right hand, or right side, uncovered. But if a companion covered that side, he was protected. In the same way Jehovah will protect us if we take him into account and obey him.

Psalms 16:8. This same text makes us think about Jehovah, it makes us wonder: How do we keep Jehovah at our right? At least in two ways. First, letting his word guide us in every aspect of life, and second, setting our sights on the glorious prize he offers us. With this guarantee, we can certainly face the future with confidence.

Psalms 16:7. Jehovah is a good shepherd and he loves us, sometimes he corrects us. David valued that correction, and that is why he said the words of this psalm, he meditated on the counsels of God and strove to learn to think like him. He allowed this advice to shape him, that is, to change him and make him a better person. If we do the same, our love for Jehovah and our desire to obey him will grow stronger. Furthermore, we will become mature Christians. It could happen Just like a sister who said: "When I study and meditate on what I read, I have the feeling that Jehovah has not written just for me."

Psalms 16:5. The spiritual person has faith in God and strives to see things as he sees them. She seeks guidance from him and is determined to obey him. That's what David was like. In one song she said that Jehovah was her portion, referring to her good relationship with him. He was grateful to be a friend of God and took refuge in him.

Psalms 16:1. It teaches us how important it is to take refuge in Jehovah. For example, when rain or a storm comes, we look for shelter to weather the storm. In life there are storms, and instead of being out in the open we can take refuge in Jehovah.

Psalms 16:1,2. In these verses David expresses his trust and dependence on Jehovah, recognizing that he is his lord and his supreme good. This teaches me that I should put my faith and hope in Jehovah and not in the things of this world.

Psalms 16:4. This verse shows how David rejects idolaters, because they separate themselves from God. This teaches me to avoid idolatry and sin that distance me from Jehovah and bring suffering.

Psalms 16:4. This verse teaches us a warning about the consequences of following other gods.

Psalms 16:5,6. In these verses David declares his satisfaction and acknowledges that Jehovah has given him a beautiful and pleasant portion or inheritance. This teaches me that I should thank Jehovah for everything he has given me, both spiritually and materially.

Psalms 16:11. This verse teaches me to recognize that only in Jehovah do we find the true meaning, true joy, and true happiness of life.

Psalms 16:9,10. In these verses David expresses his joy, his joy, and his peace, which are the result of his trust in Jehovah.

Psalms 16:7,8. Here the psalmist blesses Jehovah for his counsel and his correction, which guide and instruct him. He also claims that he always has God before him, and that therefore he will not be shaken. This teaches me that I must listen to Jehovah's voice through thoughtful Bible study in order to remain firm in my faith.

Psalms 16:1. In this same text we can find another very valuable Pearl, since when asking for Protection, the psalmist recognizes that he depends on Jehovah. This is a lesson for us about humility and the need to recognize that we cannot face life on our own. And that we depend on Jehovah for all things.

Psalm 16:2. In the original language, what David meant in this psalm was that for David Jehovah was his source of all good things. He strove to invite God and do everything that is good. He also strove to hate the things that God hates, such as idolatry, for he knew that this practice degrades human beings and robs Jehovah of the glory that belongs to Him.

Psalms 16:3. It teaches us how important it is to have true friends, David knew that the secret to making true friends was to choose them from among those who loved Jehovah. He called them "Saints" who strove to follow God's moral standards. And he said that being with them was very nice.

Psalms 16:8. The statement “Nothing will ever shake me” suggests unwavering trust in Jehovah. Like the psalmist, we want that despite difficult circumstances or challenges that may arise, we must continue to trust in Jehovah and keep in mind that stability and strength come from him.

Psalms 16:11. This verse highlights the idea that Jehovah guides us and shows us the path of life. This verse is also like a call to trust in Jehovah's wisdom to find direction in our lives.

Psalms 17:1. The psalmist emphasizes that his prayer is without deceit. This teaches us the importance of honesty and transparency in our communication with Jehovah. We should not hide our true emotions or intentions, yes, we should present ourselves to him with total sincerity.

Psalms 17:14-15. This verse teaches us to be content with what we have, just as David was satisfied knowing that Jehovah was always with him, ready to come to his aid. This is an excellent example that we can imitate.

Psalms 17:4. This verse shows us that as Christians we must avoid Satan's worldly practices by all means if we want to gain God's approval.

Psalms 17:6. This text gives us the assurance that Jehovah is not heard and answers our prayers, because he is our father who loves us and cares for us.

Psalms 17:5. This text teaches us the importance of asking Jehovah to help us continue in his ways, and not allowing the attitudes of the people of this world to infect us. 

Psalms 17:9. Sometimes we might feel that we are surrounded by bad people, people who desire evil in their hearts. It is good to always entrust ourselves to Jehovah and take care of ourselves as best as possible, and avoid being the ones who act evil toward others.

Psalms 17:3. This text shows us that Jehovah examines us how we are inside, he knows our interior, that is why it is important that as Christians we have a sincere and pure heart away from evil. 

Psalms 17:2. This text teaches us that Jehovah is a righteous God in justice, since he knows what is best for all of us.

Psalms 17:1. This text teaches us that it is important to ask Jehovah to hear our prayers, if we do it with humility we can be sure that Jehovah will listen to us and help us.

Psalms 17:14. The men of this world are dedicated to living well, raising a family, and leaving an inheritance. David's main interest in life was to earn a good name before Jehovah so that he could behold his face, that is, enjoy his favor. By awakening to Jehovah's promises and assurances, that is, by becoming aware of them, David would be satisfied to see his form; in other words, he would be glad that Jehovah was at his side. This motivates us to set our hearts on spiritual treasures.

Psalms 17:2-3. Jehovah examines our hearts, he knows what is in ourselves, it is like someone scans a vehicle, and this gives a diagnosis, Jehovah scans us and knows what we have in our hearts. For this reason it is good to stop and think that we let it grow in our hearts.

Psalms 17:4,5. Here David is shown avoiding the paths of thieves and staying in the ways of God. This teaches me that we must be aware of our actions and decisions so as not to fall into the trap of the wrong path.

Psalms 17:1-3. These verses teach us to pray to Jehovah sincerely and confidently, asking him to hear our righteous cause and examine our hearts.

Psalms 17:5. Here David longs to see the face of Jehovah. This teaches me that we can be considered righteous in his sight, even if we face difficulties, because we can find the comfort that comes from Jehovah.

Psalms 17:10-12. These verses show us that we must denounce the evil and arrogance of the wicked, who are wrapped up in their own prosperity and who stalk the righteous like lions. Today we do it through preaching. Hence the importance of preaching very actively.

Psalms 17:13,14. These verses teach us that we should pray to Jehovah and cry out for his justice and intervention. So that he protects us and helps us face the evil of this world.

Psalms 17:8,9. These verses teach us to ask Jehovah to keep us under his care and in the shadow of his wings or as the apple of his eye.

Psalms 17:1. In this text David presents his request to God in the midst of difficulties and afflictions. The lesson we can draw is that when we face difficulties, the first action we must take is to turn to God in prayer. David shows us that our prayers must be sincere and genuine, coming from the depths of our hearts and without guile. This involves complete honesty before God, expressing our needs, concerns and desires with sincerity and humility.

Psalms 17:3. The confidence that David shows that his heart has been searched by God and found sincere reminds us of the importance of living a life of integrity and sincerity before God. This involves being aware of our thoughts, words and actions, and seeking to live in accordance with God's principles and commandments at all times. 

Psalms 17:6,7. These verses teach us to take refuge in Jehovah with faith and hope, believing that he will hear us and answer us. They also show us David's gratitude for God's mercy and salvation, protecting him from his enemies.

Psalms 17:4,5. These verses teach us to keep Jehovah's commandments and follow his righteous standards, avoiding the violence and evil of this world. They also show us the importance of depending on Jehovah to avoid stumbling, instead of relying on our own strength.

Psalms 17:1-3. In these verses we also find another very valuable Pearl, since we can see David's desire not to sin with his words or his actions and to be approved by God. From this I learn that I must also desire Jehovah's approval and that will prompt me to be careful with my words and actions.

Psalms 17:6-8. Here it is shown how David trusts that Jehovah will protect him like the apple of his eye and will take care of him under the shadow of his wings. This teaches me that like David, I must trust in Jehovah's protection and love.

Psalms 17:2. This verse also teaches us about the importance of trusting in Jehovah through prayer. The psalmist addresses Jehovah trusting in his ability to discern and act in justice.

Psalms 17:1. Here David cries out to Jehovah for justice. Sometimes we too need to seek justice, but like David we must trust that God is attentive to our pleas.

Psalms 17:7. It is a prayer, and this verse highlights the importance of communicating with Jehovah. The lesson is that prayer is a vital means to express our needs, gratitude and trust, this allows us to strengthen the relationship we have with Jehovah.

Psalms 17:10. Here we see how the psalmist expresses his confidence that Jehovah will not leave him in the grave and will not allow his loyal servant to see the hole. This lesson teaches us about hope in the promise of eternal life and confidence that Jehovah has the power to defeat death. 

Psalms 17:10. Another lesson we can learn from this verse is that the psalmist demonstrates faith and faithfulness in Jehovah. The lesson is that we must trust in Jehovah's promise that he will be with us in all circumstances. Even if we die, we trust that he will bring us back to life through the resurrection.

Psalms 17:12. Just as the lion has a clear goal in hunting its prey, this verse can motivate us to reflect on our goals and aspirations in life. For this reason, it is good to ask ourselves: Are we pursuing our spiritual goals with the same determination?

Psalms 17:3. Here David states that his heart has been approved and purified. This teaches me that it is important to keep our hearts sincere and free of malice and to have our conscience for not having plotted anything bad against anyone.