Neville Goddard on Psalms 17:4-9 - Mystical Bible Interpretation

Read Psalms 17 in context

Scripture Focus

4Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.

5Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not.

6I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O God: incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech.

7Shew thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust in thee from those that rise up against them.

8Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,

9From the wicked that oppress me, from my deadly enemies, who compass me about.

Psalms 17:4-9

Biblical Context

The psalm centers on keeping to God's paths and seeking protection from enemies. It hinges on trust, mercy, and the assurance that God hears and shelters the faithful.

Neville's Inner Vision

Viewed through the inner eye, the words are not external events but states of consciousness. The line about the word of thy lips becomes the inner voice of I AM guiding you away from destructive habits and thoughts. Hold up my goings in thy paths translates to aligning your daily living with the ideal you profess, so your steps do not slip into fear or confusion. I have called upon thee is not pleading with a distant deity but turning attention to your awakened awareness, listening to the flavor of your faith. Show thy marvellous lovingkindness is the experience of grace—trusting the right hand of your awareness as protection from opposing thoughts and external pressure. Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings is the sensation of being cherished and sheltered when you dwell in the circle of I AM. The verse teaches that safety comes as you inhabit the inward point of consciousness where mercy and courage meet.

Practice This Now

Imaginative Act: Sit quietly, breathe, and revise your sense of self to the I AM, declaring that you are kept in the path of divine protection. Feel the shelter as if held under wings, and dwell there for a minute.