During our Worship Time this week, Carey Helmink led us through Psalm 16. If you weren’t able to join us, take a few minutes from your day to read the words of this song and answer the questions.
PSALM 16
“Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.” (v.1)
In what ways do you need God to be a refuge for you today?
I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you.” (v.2)
Are there areas of your life that need to be given to the Lord? Can you honestly say to him, “You are my Master!” in every facet of your life?
The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them! (v.3)
Is there a godly person that has influenced your life? Someone who truly is a hero to you? Describe how they have impacted you. Take the time to communicate that to them at some point this week.
Troubles multiply for those who chase after other gods. I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood 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 a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance. (v.4-6)
List some of the things that are promised to you if you follow Jesus. In what ways is he your “cup of blessing”?
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. (v.7-8)
What are some implications of the previous verses? If I believed it, how would these things affect my daily life?
No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety. For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave. You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasure of living with you forever. (v.9-11)
AMEN!
Paraphrase of Psalm 16 taken from Psalms/Now by Leslie F. Brandt:
Sustain me, O God, for my faith is anchored in You.
I say it again, “You are my Lord;
When I am estranged from You, I have nothing that is of any real worth.”
The significant and contributive people of this world know You.
I must respect these individuals.
Those who make lesser things their ultimate concern
are investing in eventual trouble and grief.
I cannot worship their idols or respect their objectives.
God has become my ultimate concern. He is the Pilot of my ship.
Thus, the course before me will lead to ultimate fulfillment.
I am guaranteed an inheritance of infinite value.
I look to God as my chief counselor.
Even in the darkest night, He is ready to teach and guide me.
Because He continually surrounds me, I shall not lose my way.
Is it any wonder that I am happy?
Even my humanity, my tangible body,
rests in the blessed realization of this security.
God will keep even my human self from the destructive clutch of evil.
You do show me the paths I must take, O Lord.
Within Your all-embracing presence lies genuine fulfillment.
In my relationship with You, I discover incomparable and eternal joy.
Equip Her 