Psalms 16
AOSNPsalms 16:1-11
In this psalm of confidence, the poet quickly transitions from a brief request (Psalm 16:1) to expressions of deep commitment to God and his people (Psalm 16:2–6). The psalm concludes with confident praise (Psalm 16:7–11).
Psalms 16:1
The psalmist feels safe because only the Lord offers:
security (Psalm 16:5–6),
guidance (Psalm 16:7–8), and
the joy of his presence (Psalm 16:9–11).
Psalms 16:2
I said to the LORD: The various writers of the psalms pray, lament, and praise the Lord throughout the Psalter (the book of Psalms). The Lord answers them (see Psalm 12:5–6).
Psalms 16:4
The psalmist separates himself from unholy worship, rituals, and words (see Psalm 15:3–5).
Psalms 16:5
The cup of blessing represents how God supplies all the psalmist's needs (Psalm 23:5; see 116:13; compare 75:8; Isaiah 51:17).
Psalms 16:6
The land is God’s gift for his people (Deuteronomy 18:8).
Psalms 16:7-8
God's guidance gives life (Psalm 16:11; see 5:8; 23:1–3; 32:8; 73:24).
The psalmist relies on the Lord for strength and joy, feeling God's presence beside him (Psalm 16:11; see 73:23; 109:31; 110:1, 5; 121:5).
Peter quoted Psalm 16:8–11 in his sermon on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:25–28).
Psalms 16:9-11
The psalmist feels confident because he knows that even death cannot separate him from the Lord. He fears separation (see Psalm 13:3–4), but he remains confident that he will see the Lord (see 11:7).
Psalms 16:10
The psalmist shows belief that life goes on after death. The apostles applied this text to the resurrection of Jesus (Acts 2:25–33; 13:35).
Psalms 16:11
at Your right hand: See Psalm 16:7–8; 110:1.
Aquifer Open Study Notes © 2026 Mission Mutual, an adaptation of the Tyndale Open Study Notes © 2023 Tyndale House Publishers. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.