Psalm 16, Part 1: Instruct Me in the Night

Psalm 16 “is an expression of complete happiness such as springs from complete submission to God. The psalmist progresses from the thought of God as his sole protector to a declaration of faith in life everlasting, a declaration rarely so clearly expressed in the OT [Old Testament]. The last verses of the psalm have Messianic import [see Acts 2:25–31].” David is not pleading for help in verse 1 so much as requesting continued care and protection.

Recognizing God as the source of all goodness, David puts his trust in Him and seeks to continue their relationship. Those who worship Jehovah and obey His law are an earthly joy to associate with (Psalm 16:3). Those that follow other gods will have nothing but continual sorrow (v. 4). David maintains that his destiny rests in the hands of the Lord (v. 6).

He knows God will apportion out a choice inheritance in the best of locations, and for that reason, he gives thanks to the Lord for His generosity and goodness (vv. 5, 6).

During the night’s stillness, it is easier to hear the counsel of God.

Listening for the answer to prayer is as important as prayer itself.

Too often, we eagerly tell God our troubles and ask for help but then fail to listen and watch for His answer. An honest conscience, fortified by reading God’s Word, reins in improper actions and emotions, helping us walk in the path of life (v. 7).

“In David’s eyes, God was no mere abstraction, but a Person actually at his side. Enoch walked with God (Gen. 5:22; . . .). Moses kept a vision of God before him. . . . We need a consciousness of the constant presence of God. Not only will a sense of God’s presence be a deterrent to sinning, but it will gladden the heart, brighten the life, and give meaning to circumstances.” “Speak, Lord, in the stillness, / While I wait on Thee; / Hushed my heart to listen, / In expectancy.”