Scripture: “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”- (16:11)
Observation: This chapter is full of praises to the Lord. David writes about having a “goodly heritage”, and how God has provided counsel and guidance throughout his life. He then ends with our key verse, having the faith that God will continue to lead him and give him joy forever.
Application: There is no doubt that life is unpredictable. There are always unexpected obstacles that can make navigating through each day very challenging. We have to use real caution when determining from whom we seek advice for the many trials and tribulations that come our way, or we may be given counse that will take us down paths that are not beneficial nor healthy when it comes to achieving the goals we have set for ourselves. So to whom do we go?
David knew the answer. He clearly put his trust in the Lord. Here is what he says in this psalm about God.
- God preserves His own (v1)
- God protects the inheritance found in Him (v5).
- God provides dependable counsel (v7).
- God leads us (v8).
- God will not abandon us (v10).
- God will show us the path we should follow through life (v11).
- God provides eternal pleasures (v11).
- God provides full joy (v11).
Having God on our side as we go through life will not prevent unwanted circumstances from occurring, but with God, we will never be alone, and He will always provide the way through whatever happens. His Word is our life manual, providing guidance in handling all of life’s problems. The Scriptures give us encouragement, guidance, problem-solving skills, and hope. It offer forgiveness when we mess up and promises that give comfort and peace. It is filled with examples of people who chose to follow God despite adversity. People like Noah, Daniel, Elijah, Paul, Esther, Ruth, etc. People like you and me; people who made mistakes, but sought God’s help and redemption to find that joy and peace He offers. Lastly, but most importantly, the Bible also gives us the greatest example of how to live our lives through the person of the Lord Jesus Christ.
It is not easy choosing to live a life modeled after the Saviour, but it is only through Him and His saving grace that we truly have the promised fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore. If you’ve never trusted Christ as Your Saviour, why not do so today? You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain!
Prayer: Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You for the Bible. I know that whatever I need You have provided in Your Word. I know I can trust each promise You have made for You are trustworthy and faithful. Thank You for Your truth. You have given me comfort, love, joy and hope! I am so blessed! In Your precious name, I pray. Amen.
Joyful, joyful, we adore You, God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flow’rs before You, op’ning to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day!
Always giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blest,
Well-spring of the joy of living, ocean-depth of happy rest!
Loving Father, Christ our Brother, let Your light upon us shine;
Teach us how to love each other, lift us to the joy divine.
(from “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” by Henry Van Dyke)
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“…I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” – John 10:10b