Psalms 16-18

Click on the passage to read it first:  Psalms 16-18

If you're struggling in life...these verses are for you!

David was going through a tough time. In fact, much of the beginning of the book of Psalms gives rise to the fact that David had it rough for most of his life. Ever since he slew Goliath as a young teenage boy, a lot has been expected of him. As a young man who enjoyed the hand of God on his triumphs in battle, he ended up running for nearly 15 years away from the wrath of King Saul. After Saul's death, he then was faced with the ever-present challenges of being the king over the people Israel, the challenges of winning against the enemies who surrounded his nation, as well as the challenges of being the father of a growing, royal family. David had to deal with more STUFF than most of us have to deal with in a lifetime!

He even admits in Psalm 17 - "The ropes of death entangled me; floods of destruction swept over me. The grave wrapped its ropes around me; death laid a trap in my path. But in my distress I cried out to the Lord; yes, I prayed to my God for help."

However, in spite of all this, David looks to God and sees what benefit he has in knowing God and in leading a holy life. In fact, David sees a lot of benefit he is receiving from the hand of God while he is living. Notice what he says in Psalms 15 - "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."And in Psalms 18 where he says, "I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety."

David also looked well into the future! He often reminded himself that one day he would be dwelling in the wonderful, secure presence of Almighty God. Notice what he says below:

"Because I am righteous, I will see you. When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied."

"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<sup>."

If you like to pray Scripture...these three chapters would be great ones to pray to your Heavenly Father!</sup>