Psalms – Chapter 16

Old Testament15 Verses

1The prayer of David. Hear, O Lord, my justice: attend to my supplication. Give ear unto my prayer, which proceedeth not from deceitful lips.

2Let my judgment come forth from thy countenance: let thy eyes behold the things that are equitable.

3Thou hast proved my heart, and visited it by night, thou hast tried me by fire: and iniquity hath not been found in me.

4That my mouth may not speak the works of men: for the sake of the words of thy lips, I have kept hard ways.

5Perfect thou my goings in thy paths: that my footsteps be not moved.

6I have cried to thee, for thou, O God, hast heard me: O incline thy ear unto me, and hear my words.

7Shew forth thy wonderful mercies; thou who savest them that trust in thee.

8From them that resist thy right hand keep me, as the apple of thy eye. Protect me under the shadow of thy wings.

9From the face of the wicked who have afflicted me. My enemies have surrounded my soul:

10They have shut up their fat: their mouth hath spoken proudly.

11They have cast me forth, and now they have surrounded me: they have set their eyes bowing down to the earth.

12They have taken me, as a lion prepared for the prey; and as a young lion dwelling in secret places.

13Arise, O Lord, disappoint him and supplant him; deliver my soul from the wicked one; thy sword

14From the enemies of thy hand. O Lord, divide them from the few of the earth in their life: their belly is filled from thy hidden stores. They are full of children: and they have left to their little ones the rest of their substance.

15But as for me, I will appear before thy sight in justice: I shall be satisfied when thy glory shall appear.

Reflection for Today

In Psalms Chapter 16, we encounter the continuing revelation of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God. The Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, has always treasured these sacred texts. the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589). The central message—God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him—speaks to believers in every age.

The Magisterium teaches that Scripture must be interpreted in light of the whole of revelation and the Church's living Tradition. The Catechism emphasizes that "the task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone" (CIC 85). This does not limit our engagement with Scripture but ensures its proper understanding.

As you reflect on this chapter, consider how its message applies to your life today. The Word of God is living and active, capable of transforming hearts and renewing minds. Through prayer and meditation, allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you through these ancient yet ever-new words.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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