Psalm 16

Hope for a Wonderful Inheritance

A psalm*16: title Hebrew miktam. This may be a literary or musical term. of David.

1Keep me safe, O God,

for I have come to you for refuge.

2I said to the Lord, “You are my Master!

Every good thing I have comes from you.”

3The godly people in the land

are my true heroes!

I take pleasure in them!

4Troubles multiply for those who chase after other gods.

I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood

or even speak the names of their gods.

5Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing.

You guard all that is mine.

6The land you have given me is a pleasant land.

What a wonderful inheritance!

7I will bless the Lord who guides me;

even at night my heart instructs me.

8I know the Lord is always with me.

I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.

9No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice.*16:9 Greek version reads and my tongue shouts his praises. Compare Acts 2:26.

My body rests in safety.

10For you will not leave my soul among the dead*16:10a Hebrew in Sheol.

or allow your holy one*16:10b Or your Holy One. to rot in the grave.

11You will show me the way of life,

granting me the joy of your presence

and the pleasures of living with you forever.*16:11 Greek version reads You have shown me the way of life, / and you will fill me with the joy of your presence. Compare Acts 2:28.