Mikhtam
Psalm 16 is a less well-known psalm of David than psalm 23 but the psalm is a rich seam that unveils the valuable worth of walking with and clinging to a God who is a source of ultimate security and refuge, unblemished goodness, faithfulness and whose is a present presence inviting us to draw near to him.
The title used to describe this type of psalm is a Mikhtam. Although this is likely a musical term, this word translates in the Hebrew as ‘golden’; ‘graven’; ‘a permanent writing’; ‘precious’, ‘hidden’, ‘spiritual secret’ or ‘jewel’. Wrapped within the verses of this psalm, glimpses of the beauty and character of Christ, our precious jewel, can be seen unveiled and the new covenant he has ushered in and now presides over as King and High Priest. Therefore, let us take a moment to explore and reflect on the words of this psalm and their unveiling of our risen saviour Christ who has brought us near to God.
Our Refuge
“Our refuge: Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge” Psalm 16:1 (NIV)
Jesus as our redeemer and permanent high priest provides a permanent refuge of salvation and security in which we can reside. He is the rock on which we should lean and in which we are hidden. To develop this further, a picture of the peace that is found in taking refuge in the saving work and acceptance of Jesus and finding our voice in the presence of a loving heavenly father is found in Song of Songs:
My dove in the clefts of the rock, in the hiding places on the mountainside, show me your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely. Song of Songs 2:14 (NIV)
Our Portion
Not only is he the Prince of Peace and a place of refuge, but Christ has established for us an inheritance to which we are co-heirs:
“Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely, I have a delightful inheritance.” Psalm 16:5
Indeed, such delight at this inheritance is bequeathed and grows the more we realise that it is Christ and Christ alone who has won this for us and his motive for doing so: not obligation, but profound, perfect, and unwavering, undeserved love for us. Therefore, what joy it is indeed to us to have Jesus Christ as our portion, the one who loves us and gave himself unhesitatingly for us and has provided us an eternal inheritance that will not spoil as members of His family and His Kingdom.
Amen.
© 2024, B. Trowbridge
Abba's Dearly Beloved 