Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

David chose the counsel and inheritance of the Lord over other gods.

What does it mean?

On the run from Saul, David had two opportunities to take Saul’s life but chose not to do so. Both times, Saul temporarily backed off. It was probably during one of these lulls that David wrote this psalm. As the anointed king, David could have taken the throne of Israel for himself. Some might even have suggested that he seek answers by making sacrifices to other gods, but abandoning the Lord would only increase his sorrows. David chose to follow the Lord’s counsel, even when he went through suffering on the path to the throne. God had not abandoned David, and he would not abandon his Lord. Hardship made David recognize that he had nothing of value outside of the Lord.

How should I respond?

Life seldom turns out the way we thought in our youth that it would. Life happens. What plans have gone awry, leaving you disappointed? Whether or not you feel content at any given moment has more to do with your perspective than your actual circumstances. Are you focused on what God has not yet chosen to give or on what He has graciously done already? Only the comfort and strength of the Lord bring lasting satisfaction, regardless of the trouble that might surround you. Will you say along with David, “You are my Lord; apart from you, I have no good thing”?