In verse 1, the Psalmist, David, prays that God would preserve him.

Ps 16:1 “Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.”

At the end of the Psalm (v. 9-11), David rejoices with confidence, knowing that He is eternally secure in the presence of God.

Ps 16:9 “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. 10 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. 11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

Verse 10 points to a circumstance that made David think he would or could die. He knows that on the other side of death (Sheol), there is resurrection.

What is true of the believer’s security in God? God, the object of my faith, will affect my safety. My faith in God will affect my security.

  • Eternal security is the foundation of present security. Test: Does my present inner turmoil contradict my eternal claim? I must pray and reposition my faith (v. 1).
  • Eternal security replaces the turmoil of my heart, and rejoicing takes place (v. 9a). The posture of my heart shows up in what I do with my body. Test: Does the way I do life confirm the security and rejoicing of my heart? I must pray and reposition my faith (v. 1).
  • Eternal security makes the worst possibility today end with eternal joy in the presence of God. The fleeting pleasures and securities of this life cannot offer the “presence” of the LORD, “fullness of joy,” or “pleasures forevermore.” Test: Do I need to reevaluate the worst possible outcome of my present with my eternal future?  I must pray and reposition my faith (v. 1).

How does the Psalmist reposition his faith? (v. 2-8)

  • Verse 2 – He commits himself to God, who is the source of all good. He reflects that God has given him every beneficial thing he has.
  • Verse 3 – He delights in his spiritual brothers and sisters.
  • Verse 4 – He recognizes the sorrow and dissatisfaction that will come from any object of trust that is not the LORD.
  • Verses 5-6 – He delights in the inheritance (portion, lot, lines) that he has from the LORD.
  • Verses 7-8 – He delights in and commits himself to Divine counsel. Counsel from God penetrates the “heart” even in the dark circumstances of “night.”

What is my trust? Who is my trust? Why fear? Is God my counselor through His Word? My Savior is my hope and He is worthy of my trust.

Ps 16:1 “Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.”