A Commentary on the 16th Psalm

Life is like an incomplete circle.  A section of the circle is not drawn, not present.  We experience a need to complete this section.  The section has much of importance associated with it, including the need for safety.  Safety is an utmost need in our lives. 

The psalmist continues with another request to God - from seeking safety to finding sense.   Without God, nothing makes sense.   In the uncompleted section of our circle, we find not only a need for safety but also a need for making sense of things - for knowledge and wisdom.

Is there sarcasm here?  It seems possible.  The psalmist seems to suggest not to be fooled by the chosen lives all around.  Can we really believe that they make splendid friends?  Perhaps, but not to depend upon, as we can depend on God.

Go beyond our routine – trying to find God as we might shop for everything else will not succeed.  God is not routinely found.

Seeking God is a choice.  To be truly blessed is to make the choice to find God.   In the finding, we will find something truly unique and special – that we are loved in return.

In the search for God, benefits are found.  In searching for God’s kingdom, we will find that which is best for us.  God will set us up for what is most valuable, for a more completed circle.

The kingdom of God’s counsel penetrates to the deepest parts of our soul, into our mindfulness, into our heart.  This is our reward.

Seeking God’s kingdom needs constancy, just as day follows night is constant.  Randomness will not work.   Such randomness is not the nature of God.   God is constant, and we too should be in our searching.  Rewards are with the effort.  Keep seeking and you will find out.

The incomplete circle becomes more complete.  The limits to one’s happiness decreases.  We find happiness unlike any others.

Completing the circle is the goal one should have.  Acting to do otherwise will lead to a bridge to nowhere – it is not a desirable destination.

The choice that is possible because of God stands out like the sun on a bright summer day.  It is the path we should take.  I am certain of it.