I started to read Psalm 16 with the intent of using it in the blog. But the more I read and studied it, the more Psalm 23 kept coming into my mind and rather insistently, too. So instead of just one Psalm, doled out sparingly like candy, I am giving you two. Both are in the New Living Translation; both are written by David. (NOTE: I did cut some verses from Psalm 16: they took the message off track. If you want to see that whole Psalm, click here.)
Psalm 16
1 Keep me safe, O God,
for I have come to you for refuge.
Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
2 I said to the Lord, “You are my Master!
Every good thing I have comes from you.”
2 He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
5 Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing.
You guard all that is mine.
3 He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
6 The land you have given me is a pleasant land.
What a wonderful inheritance!
4 Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
7 I will bless the Lord who guides me;
even at night my heart instructs me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
8 I know the Lord is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
5 You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
9 No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice.
My body rests in safety.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
11 You will show me the way of life,
granting me the joy of your presence
and the pleasures of living with you forever.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever.
Forever. Yes. Amen.
I have all that I need here and heaven hereafter! How much richer could anybody want to be? – Lester Roloff