Psalm 17:15

Psalm 17:15 is the climax and the prize of the entire psalm. 'As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness'—the psalmist states clearly what he truly seeks. Not temporal wealth, not many children, not earthly power, but the sight of God. 'In righteousness' means that his approach to God is marked by his integrity and his right standing. He seeks God not as a supplicant hoping to be forgiven for hidden sin but as one who has walked the path of truth and now asks for the reward of that faithfulness. 'I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness'—the final phrase moves beyond the immediate crisis of danger. 'When I awake' may refer to awakening from sleep, awakening from this trial, or awakening into the resurrection, but it points to a future fulfillment. To be satisfied with God's likeness means more than happiness; it means to be transformed, to be made like God.

The arc of the psalm is now complete. The psalmist began by asking God to hear his case, presented his testimony of integrity, described the deadly danger he faces, and called on God to act. But the ultimate resolution is not earthly victory or vindication before enemies. It is union with God, transformation into His image. This is what awaits the person who has refused the world's portion, maintained truthfulness, and kept God's word as his guide. The satisfaction that comes from beholding God's face and being made like Him far exceeds any temporal treasure, and it is permanent, not subject to decay or loss as the world's goods are.