Psalms 16:3

KJV

[But] to the saints that [are] in the earth, and [to] the excellent, in whom [is] all my delight.

KJV (with Strong's)

But to the saints {H6918} that {H1992} are in the earth {H776}, and to the excellent {H117}, in whom is all my delight {H2656}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The holy people in the land are the ones who are worthy of honor; all my pleasure is in them.

Berean Standard Bible

As for the saints in the land, they are the excellence in whom all my delight resides.

American Standard Version

As for the saints that are in the earth, They are the excellent in whom is all my delight.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 16:3 serves as a profound declaration from David, articulating his deep affection and unwavering delight in the community of God's faithful people. In stark contrast to the emptiness of idolatry and worldly pursuits, which he implicitly rejects in the surrounding verses, David finds his ultimate joy and satisfaction not in material possessions or false gods, but in the "saints" and "excellent" ones on earth—those consecrated by God and reflecting His divine character. This verse powerfully underscores the vital importance of godly fellowship as a source of spiritual strength, encouragement, and true contentment for the believer, highlighting the communal dimension of genuine faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 16 is designated a "Michtam of David," a term often interpreted as a 'golden psalm' or a 'private inscription,' signifying its precious and enduring spiritual value. The psalm commences with David's earnest plea for divine preservation and a resolute declaration of his absolute trust in Yahweh as his sole refuge and source of all good, stating, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing" in [Psalm 16:2](/psalms/16-2 "Psalm 16:2 - David's Declaration of Trust in God"). Having firmly established his exclusive devotion to the one true God in [Psalm 16:1-2](/psalms/16-1-2 "Psalm 16:1-2 - David's Plea for Preservation and Trust in Yahweh"), David then pivots in [Psalm 16:3](/psalms/16-3 "Psalm 16:3 - David's Delight in the Saints") to express the natural outflow of such singular devotion: a profound delight in those who share this unwavering commitment to the Lord. This verse acts as a crucial bridge, contrasting the rejection of false gods and their worshippers (explicitly condemned in [Psalm 16:4](/psalms/16-4 "Psalm 16:4 - Rejection of Idolatry")) with the embrace of true worshippers, thereby setting the stage for the psalm's triumphant climax of finding "fullness of joy" and "pleasures forevermore" in God's presence, as beautifully articulated in [Psalm 16:11](/psalms/16-11 "Psalm 16:11 - The Path of Life and Fullness of Joy").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's era was characterized by pervasive polytheism and idolatry throughout the ancient Near East, a spiritual landscape that often infiltrated even Israelite society. Surrounding nations engaged in the worship of numerous deities, frequently involving morally abhorrent practices such as ritual prostitution, child sacrifice, and ecstatic cults, which David vehemently condemns in [Psalm 16:4](/psalms/16-4 "Psalm 16:4 - Rejection of Idolatry"). Within this challenging environment, David's declaration of delight in the "saints" was far more than a personal preference; it was a bold, counter-cultural statement of allegiance to Yahweh and His covenant community. It affirmed that true spiritual and communal identity was not to be found in the prevailing pagan customs or the pursuit of worldly power, but exclusively in fellowship with those consecrated to Yahweh, the one true God. This emphasis on community was foundational to Israelite identity, where the people of God were called to be a distinct nation, set apart for His divine purposes, and where mutual support within the covenant community was absolutely crucial for spiritual survival, flourishing, and maintaining their unique witness.
* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within Psalms 16 and the broader Psalter. Firstly, it profoundly highlights the theme of **Delight in Godly Fellowship**, emphasizing that genuine spiritual satisfaction and joy are found in the company of fellow believers. This stands in stark contrast to the emptiness of worldly pursuits and the spiritual dangers of ungodly associations, powerfully reinforcing the wisdom found in [Proverbs 13:20](/proverbs/13-20 "Proverbs 13:20 - Walk with the Wise"). Secondly, it clearly defines **The Identity and Value of God's People**, identifying them as "saints" (holy ones, set apart) and "excellent" (noble, majestic), thereby underscoring their unique calling and inherent worth in God's eyes. This identity is rooted not in human achievement or social status but in divine consecration and transformation. Lastly, the verse champions the **Importance of Righteous Companionship**, portraying the deliberate choice of companions devoted to God as a source of profound personal delight and spiritual strength, which is vital for spiritual growth, perseverance, and fulfilling God's purposes, as powerfully encouraged in [Hebrews 10:25](/hebrews/10-25 "Hebrews 10:25 - Do Not Forsake Assembling Together").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Saints (Hebrew, _qâdôwsh'_):** This noun (appearing in the plural, _qĕdōšîm_, in the verse) derives from the root _qādash_ (קדש), meaning "to be holy," "to be set apart," or "to be consecrated." In this context, it refers to those whom God has separated from the common and profane for His exclusive possession and service. It denotes not primarily moral perfection, but rather a status of being divinely designated and dedicated. These are God's chosen people, set apart for His purposes, reflecting His own holiness in their lives and worship.
* **Excellent (Hebrew, _ʼaddîyr'_):** This adjective (appearing in the plural, _ʾaddîrîm_, in the verse) comes from the root _ʾādar_ (אדר), meaning "to be wide," "large," "powerful," "majestic," "noble," or "glorious." When applied to people, it describes individuals of high spiritual stature, moral integrity, and inherent worth, reflecting qualities that are admirable and weighty. It suggests that these "saints" are not merely set apart, but also possess a spiritual nobility and strength that makes them truly distinguished and worthy of admiration, embodying the character of God in their conduct and influence.
* **Delight (Hebrew, _chêphets'_):** This noun signifies a strong desire, pleasure, satisfaction, or purpose. It conveys a profound and genuine affection, indicating that David's joy in these individuals is not superficial but deeply rooted in shared faith, values, and devotion to God. It speaks to a profound spiritual affinity and contentment found in their company, contrasting sharply with the fleeting pleasures of the world or the empty rituals of idolatry. This "delight" is comprehensive, encompassing his entire satisfaction in human relationships.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But to the saints that are in the earth":** This phrase introduces the primary objects of David's profound affection, identifying them as "saints" (God's consecrated ones) who reside "in the earth." This highlights that David's delight is not in some ethereal or idealized group, but in the tangible, living community of believers. It emphasizes the reality of their presence and their crucial role as God's representatives and witnesses in the world, distinct from the ungodly masses.
* **"and to the excellent":** This clause further qualifies and amplifies the description of these individuals. They are not merely set apart by divine decree, but also possess inherent spiritual nobility, moral uprightness, and a majestic quality that reflects God's character. This dual description ("saints" and "excellent") paints a comprehensive picture of a community that is both divinely chosen and morally commendable, embodying qualities worthy of admiration, respect, and emulation.
* **"in whom is all my delight":** This concluding phrase powerfully declares the depth and totality of David's joy and satisfaction. The word "all" (כָּל־, _kōl_) emphasizes the exclusivity and completeness of his delight in this specific community. It signifies that his primary source of human joy, companionship, and spiritual fulfillment stems from his profound connection with those who share his singular devotion to Yahweh, contrasting sharply with any potential delight in worldly associations or false worship.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 16:3 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message and emotional depth. **Contrast** is central to the psalm's argument, as David's profound delight in the "saints" stands in stark opposition to the "sorrows" of those who "hasten after another god," explicitly mentioned in [Psalm 16:4](/psalms/16-4 "Psalm 16:4 - Rejection of Idolatry"). This highlights the spiritual chasm between true worship and idolatry, and between godly and ungodly companionship. The phrase "all my delight" functions as **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the completeness and intensity of David's joy; it suggests that his satisfaction in this fellowship is paramount and all-encompassing, though not to the exclusion of his ultimate delight in God Himself. **Emphasis** is further achieved through the powerful **Parallelism** and dual description of God's people as both "saints" and "excellent." These two distinct yet complementary terms create a richer, more comprehensive portrait of the community David cherishes, underscoring both their divine consecration and their admirable character.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
David's declaration in Psalms 16:3 is deeply theological, revealing a core truth about the nature of true faith: it is not a solitary endeavor but a communal experience, deeply rooted in shared devotion to God. His profound delight in the "saints" and "excellent" ones underscores the biblical emphasis on the indispensable importance of fellowship among believers. This verse teaches that those who genuinely love God will also love and cherish His people, finding spiritual nourishment, mutual encouragement, and profound joy in their company. It reflects the truth that God's holiness is manifested through His consecrated people, and their moral excellence is a tangible reflection of His character working within them. The pursuit of godly companionship is not merely a preference but a spiritual discipline that guards against temptation, fosters growth, and aligns one's deepest affections with God's own delight in His chosen ones.

* [Proverbs 13:20](/proverbs/13-20 "Proverbs 13:20 - Walk with the Wise")
* [Hebrews 10:25](/hebrews/10-25 "Hebrews 10:25 - Do Not Forsake Assembling Together")
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Generation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 16:3 serves as a powerful challenge to contemporary believers, urging us to critically examine the objects of our own delight and the nature of our chosen companions. In a world that often values superficial connections, promotes isolation, or encourages associations based on fleeting worldly interests, David's profound joy in the "saints" calls us to prioritize and actively cultivate deep, spiritually enriching relationships within the body of Christ. Do we genuinely find delight in the company of those who are consecrated to God and strive for excellence in their walk with Him? This verse reminds us that Christian fellowship is not merely a social activity but a vital, indispensable component of spiritual health, offering mutual encouragement, accountability, and a shared pursuit of God's kingdom. It also serves as a powerful affirmation of our own identity as "saints" and "excellent" in Christ, empowering us to live lives worthy of this high calling and to be the kind of individuals in whom others can find godly delight and spiritual inspiration.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do I actively seek out and cultivate fellowship with "saints" and "excellent" ones in my life, and how does this impact my spiritual growth?**
* **How does my delight in godly companionship compare to my delight in worldly pursuits, entertainment, or associations? Where might my priorities need realignment?**
* **How does understanding my identity as a "saint" and "excellent" one in Christ impact my self-perception, my daily conduct, and my interactions with others?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to be a greater source of spiritual delight, encouragement, and edification to other believers in my community?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "saints" and "excellent" ones mentioned in Psalms 16:3?**

Answer: The "saints" (Hebrew: _qĕdōšîm_) are those whom God has set apart and consecrated for Himself; they are His holy people, distinct from the world. The "excellent" (Hebrew: _ʾaddîrîm_) are those who possess spiritual nobility, majesty, and moral uprightness, reflecting God's character in their lives. Together, these terms describe the community of true believers, those devoted to Yahweh, who are distinguished by their divine calling and their godly conduct. David finds his deepest human delight and satisfaction in the company of such individuals, contrasting them with those who follow false gods or worldly paths, as he emphasizes his commitment to God alone in [Psalm 16:2](/psalms/16-2 "Psalm 16:2 - David's Declaration of Trust in God").

**Why is David's "delight" in them significant?**

Answer: David's "delight" (_chêphets_) in the saints is profoundly significant because it highlights his spiritual priorities and the communal nature of true faith. In a world filled with temptations and the allure of idolatry, David explicitly chooses to find his joy not in worldly possessions, power, or false worship, but in the fellowship of those who truly serve God. This profound delight underscores the immense value of godly community as a source of spiritual strength, encouragement, and shared purpose. It demonstrates that genuine faith leads to a deep love for God's people, recognizing their inherent worth and the spiritual benefits of their companionship, a principle echoed in the New Testament emphasis on the unity and love among believers, as Jesus commanded in [John 13:35](/john/13-35 "John 13:35 - Love One Another").

**How does Psalms 16:3 relate to the rest of Psalm 16?**

Answer: Psalms 16:3 is a pivotal verse that flows directly from David's initial declaration of absolute trust in God alone (Ps 16:1-2) and sets the stage for the psalm's triumphant conclusion. Having established God as his sole refuge and source of good, David then expresses his explicit rejection of idolatry and its associated sorrows (Ps 16:4). His delight in the "saints" (Ps 16:3) is the positive counterpart to this rejection, demonstrating where his true affections and loyalties lie. It shows that his devotion to God naturally extends to God's people, fostering a deep appreciation for their fellowship. This communal aspect then leads seamlessly to the psalm's climax, where David finds "fullness of joy" and "pleasures forevermore" in God's presence (Ps 16:11), reinforcing that a life centered on God and His people leads to ultimate satisfaction and eternal blessing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 16:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ and the community of His Church. While David delighted in the "saints" of his era, Jesus is the quintessential "Excellent One," the perfectly holy and consecrated "Saint" (cf. [Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Jesus, Our Holy High Priest")). He is the unique Son in whom the Father's "delight" truly rests, as proclaimed at His baptism and transfiguration (cf. [Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - The Baptism of Jesus") and [Matthew 17:5](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - The Transfiguration")). Furthermore, Christ Himself, through His redemptive work on the cross and His resurrection, establishes and gathers the ultimate community of "saints" on earth—His Church. We, as believers, are now called "saints" not by our own merit or inherent goodness, but by virtue of our union with Him, being chosen and set apart to be "holy and without blame before him in love" ([Ephesians 1:4](/ephesians/1-4 "Ephesians 1:4 - Chosen in Christ")). It is in this new covenant community, the very body of Christ, that we find true spiritual fellowship, mutual delight, and a shared purpose, reflecting the profound love that Christ has for His own (cf. [Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). Our delight in one another as believers is a tangible reflection of Christ's love for His Church, and our unity is a powerful testament to His transformative work, fulfilling His prayer that His followers "may be one, just as we are one" ([John 17:22](/john/17-22 "John 17:22 - Jesus Prays for Unity")). Ultimately, the "saints" in whom David delighted prefigure the global Church, which Christ is building and perfecting for His own glory, a community of "excellent" ones being conformed to His image ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to the Image of His Son")) until His glorious return.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 13:20

¶ He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

Hebrews 6:10

For God [is] not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

Proverbs 12:26

¶ The righteous [is] more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.

2 Chronicles 6:41

Now therefore arise, O LORD God, into thy resting place, thou, and the ark of thy strength: let thy priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in goodness.

Acts 9:13

Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:

Malachi 3:17

And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.

Psalms 119:63

¶ I [am] a companion of all [them] that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.