Psalms 16
Psalm 16 is a psalm known to have been written by David, and it contains the peace and joy of those who trust God faithfully, as well as ultimate hope. It is characterized by praise and confession about a life lived by making God a refuge, and it consists of 11 verses.
1verseA Poem by David. Preserve me, God, for I take refuge in you.
2verseMy soul, you have said to the LORD, “You are my Lord. Apart from you I have no good thing.”
3verseAs for the saints who are in the earth, they are the excellent ones in whom is all my delight.
4verseTheir sorrows shall be multiplied who give gifts to another god. Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer, nor take their names on my lips.
5verseThe LORD assigned my portion and my cup. You made my lot secure.
6verseThe lines have fallen to me in pleasant places. Yes, I have a good inheritance.
7verseI will bless the LORD, who has given me counsel. Yes, my heart instructs me in the night seasons.
8verseI have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
9verseTherefore my heart is glad, and my tongue rejoices. My body shall also dwell in safety.
10verseFor you will not leave my soul in Sheol, neither will you allow your holy one to see corruption.
11verseYou will show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy. In your right hand there are pleasures forever more.
Verses 1–4: God Alone as the True Source of Safety and Happiness
- Verse 1: David pleads with God to keep him safe, and confesses that only God is his refuge.
- Verses 2–3: Only God is good, and he delights in being with the people of God.
- Verse 4: He sets himself apart from those who follow other gods, showing a posture of relying on God alone.
Verses 5–8: God’s Inheritance and Guidance
- Verses 5–6: He confesses that the share and inheritance God gives are most beautiful and precious. He praises God Himself as the portion of life, not worldly possessions.
- Verses 7–8: He sings that God teaches continually, staying close at all times, so that one can enjoy an unshakable peace and boldness.
Verses 9–11: Hope for Ultimate Peace and Everlasting Life
- Verses 9–10: The reason the soul rejoices and is at peace is that it comes from faith that God will keep his life. He expresses confidence that God will not abandon him even in death (Sheol).
- Verse 11: He confesses full life, eternal joy, and the deep satisfaction that God’s presence brings to life—things he can enjoy in God.
Meditation Points
- You can think about where true safety, satisfaction, and happiness in my life come from.
- Reflect on the value of your relationship with God and the preciousness of the portion God gives.
- Let’s imprint in our hearts the comfort and assurance that the fact that God is near brings, even amid the difficulties of life.
Apply to Yourself
- Take a moment to look back and consider what it is that you rely on. Check whether you are making only God the refuge for your life.
- In trying and uncertain circumstances, decide to trust God’s leading and protection.
- With gratitude, accept the fact that the inheritance God gives for your life is more precious than anything in the world.
