Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge. I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you.” The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them! Troubles 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. Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance! I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety. For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave. You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.
Psalms 16:1-11 NLT
This psalm gives some incredible benefits that come when a person chooses to walk with God – security, joy, and peace. Verse three talks about taking delight in godly people, treating them like heroes of life and faith. That is the way it should be!
It is the nature of humans to look to people for inspiration. We are not supposed to make “Christian celebrities,” but we are supposed to look to godly leaders for guidance. A person doesn’t not have to be in a position of leadership to guide others closer to Christ. These are the people who trust in God. They look to God’s blessings and know that the real treasure of life is not possessions but God Himself: the Lord is our inheritance (v.5).
This psalm offers a challenge: make the godly people of the land your heroes, your role models. How would that happen for you? What are some ways you can be more intentional about influencing others, helping them get closer to God?
