I've been going over the books of Psalm, and every time I read a chapter God teaches me something new and incredible!
I want to focus on four specific verses in Psalm 16:1, 2, 10 and 11.
Psalm 16:1-2
"1 Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge. 2 I said to the Lord, 'You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing'" (NIV).
This verse has so much power and truth! Verse one is a promise and a declaration. The author of this psalm is asking God to protect him -- a promise--, and then a declaration by stating how he takes refuge in God.
The Oxford English Dictionary defines refuge as,"(n) The state of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger, or difficulty."
The author is saying that he will find safety, comfort and shelter in God. He's declaring that the only one who can provide refuge is God!
Verse two is also a declaration. The author is saying that he has nothing without God. Now that is a pretty profound statement; to say that you have nothing without God is certainly a humbling statement, but it also takes away the credit of your own works.
I think that's the point. We may be able to "get things done" without God, but our creator is the reason why we breath. The Holy Spirit is the one who speaks to us, and tells us where to go and what to do. So giving credit where credit is due, acknowledging that everything that we have is because of God and not ourselves is such a beautiful action. We're called the body of Christ for a reason.
Psalm 16:10-11
"10 Because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. 11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand" (NIV).
Verse 10 is so exciting! The fact that God-- the author of humanity-- will not abandon us is unfathomable! It is such a beautiful truth: God is faithful. When we fully give our hearts to God, we are able to see more of His truth.
Verse 11 is also a declaration of joy. When we become attuned to His spirit, His plans for our lives and His faithfulness, then we cannot help but be moved by the joy He provides!
Abiding in the truth of the Lord is the most joyful, peaceful and eye opening experience. We get to see the spirit of the living God move.
