GOD’S SECRET TO LIFE AND JOY

Psalm 16 is a psalm of pure delight. Unlike many other psalms, here we see no mention of trials, attacks, or distress. Instead, David’s words overflow with joy in God Himself.

In Psalm 16:2, David says:

“You are my Lord; my goodness is nothing apart from You.”

In other words, “I have no good beyond You, God.”

Paul echoes this truth in Romans 7:18–20, reminding us that in our sinful nature, we can’t produce true goodness apart from God. Even when we want to do what’s right, our flesh pulls us toward what is wrong. It’s only God’s presence and power within us that makes anything in our lives truly good.

1. Delighting in the Lord’s People

David continues:

“As for the saints who are on the earth, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.” — Psalm 16:3

Do you delight in God’s people? There’s an old saying:“To live above with saints we love will certainly be glory.To live below with saints we know, well… that’s another story.”

If some of God’s people have become difficult for you to love, start by delighting in the Lord. The more you love Him, the more your heart will soften toward His people.

2. Delighting in God’s Providence

David declares:

“O Lord, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You maintain my lot. The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places.” — Psalm 16:5–6

God knows exactly where to draw the lines in our lives — boundaries for our protection and blessing. Problems come when we try to move those lines to suit ourselves.

When Israel entered the Promised Land, God gave each tribe its specific inheritance and boundaries. He said, “Here are the lines, keep them.” When we accept God’s providence — trusting that He knows what’s best — we experience true contentment.

3. Delighting in God’s Pleasures

Psalm 16:11 says:

“You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

What a promise! This verse reveals the secret to life and joy:

• Live on God’s path — follow His direction daily.

• Live in His presence — stay close to Him in worship, prayer, and obedience.

• Live for His pleasures — make pleasing Him your greatest goal.

We have so much to delight in — His goodness, His people, His providence, and His pleasures. And the key to delighting in all these is simple: delight in God Himself.

If you want life and joy, don’t chase them — chase God. Walk on His path, dwell in His presence, and seek His pleasure above all else.

Amen!