Psalms 16

¹ Michtam of David. Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.

² [O my soul], thou hast said unto the LORD, Thou [art] my Lord: my goodness [extendeth] not to thee;

³ [But] to the saints that [are] in the earth, and [to] the excellent, in whom [is] all my delight.

⁴ Their sorrows shall be multiplied [that] hasten [after] another [god]: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips.

⁵ The LORD [is] the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.

⁶ The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant [places]; yea, I have a goodly heritage.

⁷ I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.

⁸ I have set the LORD always before me: because [he is] at my right hand, I shall not be moved.

⁹ Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.

¹⁰ For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

¹¹ Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are] pleasures for evermore.

Overview of Psalm 16

Psalm 16 is a beautiful expression of trust and confidence in God. It is attributed to David and is often considered a Messianic psalm, as it foreshadows the resurrection of Christ. The psalm emphasizes the themes of divine protection, the joy of being in God’s presence, and the assurance of eternal life.

Structure of Psalm 16

The psalm can be divided into several distinct sections, each conveying a different aspect of the psalmist’s relationship with God.

1. Verses 1-2: A Plea for Protection
   • The psalmist begins with a request for preservation and refuge in God.
   • He acknowledges God as his Lord and expresses his reliance on Him.
2. Verses 3-4: The Community of the Faithful
   • The psalmist reflects on the importance of the faithful community and their shared devotion to God.
   • He contrasts the fate of the righteous with that of those who pursue other gods.
3. Verses 5-6: The Lord as Inheritance
   • David speaks of God as his chosen portion and cup, symbolizing sustenance and blessing.
   • The psalmist recognizes the boundaries of his life as divinely appointed, leading to a sense of contentment.
4. Verses 7-8: Guidance and Security
   • The psalmist expresses gratitude for God’s counsel and guidance.
   • He affirms his commitment to keep the Lord always before him, ensuring stability and confidence.
5. Verses 9-11: Joy and Assurance of Eternal Life
   • The psalm concludes with an affirmation of joy and security in God’s presence.
   • It emphasizes the promise of eternal life, highlighting the hope of resurrection and the fullness of joy found in God.

Theological Themes

• Divine Protection: The psalmist’s plea for preservation reflects a deep reliance on God as a protector against danger and uncertainty.
• Community and Faithfulness: The importance of the faithful community is underscored, suggesting that shared devotion to God strengthens the individual’s faith.
• God as Inheritance: The metaphor of God as an inheritance signifies the deep relationship believers have with Him, emphasizing spiritual wealth over material possessions.
• Guidance and Wisdom: The psalmist acknowledges the importance of divine counsel in navigating life’s challenges, highlighting the role of God’s wisdom in making decisions.
• Joy and Eternal Life: The assurance of joy in God’s presence and the promise of eternal life reflect the hope that sustains believers through trials.

Messianic Interpretation

Psalm 16 is often interpreted as a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ, particularly in the context of His resurrection. The New Testament writers, especially in Acts 2:25-31, cite this psalm to affirm that David was speaking of the Messiah, who would not be abandoned to the grave. This connection underscores the psalm’s significance in Christian theology, linking the themes of trust and resurrection to the life and work of Jesus.

Conclusion

Psalm 16 serves as a profound meditation on trust in God, the joy of His presence, and the assurance of eternal life. Its rich theological themes resonate with believers, encouraging them to find refuge in God and to celebrate the hope that comes from a relationship with Him.