Psalm 16 - Fortress+

Castello di Brolio, Tuscany (2019)

The Psalms frequently refer to God as a refuge or fortress. It stirs up an image of a castle. The higher on a hill or mountain, the more battlements, the thicker the walls, the wider the moat... the more secure it is. 

For children--God's children--security is basic as a starting point. 

Psalm 16 begins with David praying:
“Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.” (verse 1, New Living Translation, 2015)

Sometimes we need protection from others, sometimes from ourselves. God is a refuge for us, but having surrounded us with a fortress, he gives us even more.

As David continues,
“You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you.” (v.2) He goes on to list some of those good things: the influence of godly people (v.3), an inheritance (v.5), guidance (v.7), the hope of resurrection (v.10).

Then he concludes:
“You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.” (v.11)

God doesn't give us refuge and protection as a commodity, separate from Himself. He gives us Himself as well... delighting in us so we can delight in Him.

Thank you, Father, for not just meeting our basic needs. Deep down, we need to be known--and You know us. We need to be loved--and You love us. May we respond to You in kind, hungry to know You more, and to love You more. In Jesus' name, Amen.