Scripture Reading(s)
Psalm 16
16:1 Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
16:2 I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.”
16:3 As for the holy ones in the land, they are the noble, in whom is all my delight.
16:4 Those who choose another god multiply their sorrows; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names upon my lips.
16:5 The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot.
16:6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage.
16:7 I bless the LORD who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.
16:8 I keep the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
16:9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure.
16:10 For you do not give me up to Sheol, or let your faithful one see the Pit.
16:11 You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Reflections
Protection is a basic human instinct that we all long and crave for. When the human mind feels secure and safe, we are able to function with more clarity and relaxation. Here, the Psalmist is seeking for peace regardless of what is going on around him. Troubled times bring on anxiety and stress, yet the Psalmist is recognizing that we serve a God who is able to provide protection through our trials.
He moves past the point of saying that God is our refuge and states that it is only through Him that we can find full satisfaction, rest, and peace not just in troubled times but in life. Throughout our lives we may face many dangers and if we are continually pursuing an going relationship with Christ, no matter what takes place, we know that our lives are in the hands of the one who is in full control and can provide for us during our times of need.
This is an encouraging Psalm to those who are feeling at their weakest points and it is also a reminder that our lives are not dictated by our own plans. Rather we are being guided and lead by a loving, protective and caring God. This ought to fill our hearts with joy just as the Psalmist chooses to respond in verse 9 “Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure.”
[Featured image from cogop.org]