Scripture is an amazing teacher. We know that Hebrews 4:12 calls scripture “alive and active,” but how do you really experience it? If you have not read Psalm 16 yet, do so now. Which part stuck out to you? In my reading, I was first drawn to my previous highlights and notes. They remind me of my past experiences and have become a permanent marker of where God has led me. But today, I don’t dwell there. There is new work to do because God has highlighted a new part of this Psalm for me.
What is it? I am amazed at how the Psalmist, David, puts God first, surrendering everything to Him. Consider that David is in trouble. Verse 1 states it clearly. He is looking for refuge. As we read on, we get the picture that David finds it, despite his circumstances.
First, he finds it in God himself. He understands and clearly acknowledges the good things in his life. He also recognizes that all of the good things are given by God.
Second, David finds refuge in God’s people. I can only imagine the details, but we all know how God’s people care for each other. Love has no bounds amongst His followers. While all of that is good, it is not what God highlighted for me today.
The words that struck me between the eyes are found in verse 6. It says, “the lines have fallen in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.” As I read it, I was thinking about David’s circumstances. Remember, he was seeking refuge. I would not call that “pleasant places.” In fact, I can think of all kinds of things to call it, but “pleasant” is not one of them.
This is where God does his good work in me. Today, he put my life in contrast to the life of a faithful man. He’s used it to help me redefine pleasant places. It’s not about luxury, safety, and opportunity. Not for a second. It’s about God’s provision, everywhere, all the time.
When I finally stop to look around, I see God’s provision in my life everywhere. No, that does not mean everything is going the way that I want it to, or that I have everything I think I need. It does mean that God has provided me with an amazing family and amazing people to journey this earth with. As I dwell on this, I am filled with gratitude and contentment, followed closely by peace and joy. Surely these are the pleasant places David found. Like him, I too have “a beautiful inheritance.”
Why do I believe? Because he faithfully guides, corrects, and loves me into becoming who he created me to be.