https://esv.literalword.com/?q=psalm+16
Observations from today’s readings and today’s S-WOD, Sunday, 21 April 2024:
Psalm 16:2 — You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.
When the Lord becomes all you want out of life, you will get what you want and live a fulfilled life.
Psalm 16:3 – As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.
Christians love to be around other devoted Christians and seek them out.
Psalm 16:4-5, 11 — The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply…. The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot…. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
You will either live for God or something else. With God is life, joy, and eternal pleasures. Anything else is only multiplying sorrow.
Psalm 16:8 – I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.
“What does it mean to set the Lord always before you? It means that you choose to relate everything you encounter to your trust in God. What you choose to focus on becomes the dominant influence in your life. You may be a Christian, but if your focus is always on your problems, your problems will determine the direction of your life. If your focus is on people, then people will determine what you think and do. In biblical times, the right hand was the most distinguished position, reserved for one’s chief adviser and supporter. When you choose to focus on Christ, you invite Him to take the most important position in your life as Counselor and Defender.
Every time you face a new experience, you should turn to Christ for His interpretation and strength. When people insult you and mistreat you, you should seek direction from your Counselor regarding the right response. When you face a crisis, you should receive strength from the One at your right hand. When you experience need, you should consult your Counselor before you react. When you face a fearful situation, you should take courage from the Advocate at your right hand. Everything you do is in the context of your relationship to Christ.
What an incredible act of God’s grace that Christ should stand beside you to guide you and counsel you and defend you! How could you ever become dismayed over your situation with Christ at your right hand? What confidence this should give you!” (Henry T. Blackaby)
Psalm 16:11 – In your presence there is fullness of joy.
Joy in life depends on your closeness to God. Distance from God is not a matter of time/space but rather agreement, surrender, and obedience. Draw near to God by denying yourself, taking up your cross, and walking with Jesus Christ. This is where joy and eternal life are found. It is not enough to know ‘about’ Jesus; joy is knowing Jesus personally.
“Cross” Fit S-WOD (Spiritual Workout of the Day) – 21 April 2024: Today, view everyone and everything from the perspective of God’s perfect love and Sovereignty. Everyone you meet and everything you experience is ordained by your loving Father who intends only the very best for you. Trust Him and seek to glorify Him while drawing ever closer Him through your experiences. Help everyone else do the same.
Defenders Bible Reading Plan 