Psalm 16

I have always appreciated the book of Psalms, but I am more recently loving the Word of God in this precious book. It seems like David cries out to God so much when he is in trouble - don't we often do the same? And He, our faithful God, is there. How grateful I am for that! Hear the words of Psalm 16:

Keep me safe, O God,

For I have come to You for refuge.

I said to the LORD, "You are my Master!

All the good things I have are from You."

The godly people in the land are my true heroes!

I take pleasure in them!

Those who chase after other gods will be filled with sorrow.

I will not take part in their sacrifices

or even speak the names of their gods.

LORD, You alone are my inheritance,

my cup of blessing.

You guard all that is mine.

The land You have given me is pleasant land.

What a wonderful inheritance!

I will bless the LORD who guides me;

even at night my heart instructs me.

I know the LORD is always with me.

I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me.

No wonder my heart is filled with joy,

and my mouth shouts His praises!

My body rests in safety.

For You will not leave my soul among the dead

or allow Your godly one to rot in the grave.

You will show me the way of life,

granting me the joy of Your presence

and the pleasures of living with You forever.

Several verses stuck out to me, but verse four really hit me this morning: "Those who chase after other gods will be filled with sorrow." I'm not pointing fingers at anyone but myself, for even during an ordinary day, I have seen my heart chase after other gods - other things/possessions, exalting myself rather than God, doing the LORD's work above worshipping Him - you get the idea. This kind of pursuit will dead end into sorrow, and sorrow wears many masks. Beware especially of discontentment in these circumstances. Refocus on the pursuit of the LORD God, and perhaps then, you and I will be able to make a beautiful declaration of God's convenantal love and blessings, just as David did in the end of Psalm 16. We are inexplicably blessed to know the LORD. Give thanks.

Grace and peace to you.