Psalm 16: Finding Balance in Life
JOE IS A Christian businessman. He has significant responsibility at work and puts in long hours. He enjoys his work and is productive. He is also active in his church, teaching Sunday school and serving as a deacon. His wife also works outside the home, so Joe often takes a turn cooking and cleaning. Additionally, he enjoys spending time with his family—playing a game of softball or going out to dinner together.
Joe is the Christian many of us strive to be. He is able to juggle many responsibilities and demands. He seems to be able to maintain a godly balance of values. But does he really exist? This study is about how we can discover God's values for our lives.
Warming Up to God
In what areas of your life do you struggle for balance?
Read Psalm 16. »
Discovering the Word
- According to this passage, what has the Lord done for David?
- What body imagery does David use to describe his relationship with God (vv. 5, 7-11)?
- Describe the spirit of David's comments about the land in verses 5-6.
- What is the significance of the Lord's being at David's right hand (vv. 8-11)?
- Look back through the entire passage. What is important to people who follow God?
- How do those values contrast with worldly values?
Applying the Word
- In what specific ways do you need to bring your values in line with God's values?
- What would help you to do that?
Responding in Prayer
Make thanking God for the "inheritance" he has given you a focus for prayer. Try to be aware of the different roles (counselor, protector, sustainer, refuge) God plays in your daily life.
For Further Study
Pleasing God by Jack Kuhatschek