Psalms 16:3

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

Psalm 16:3 is a profound declaration of King David's affection and admiration for God's faithful people. It reveals a crucial aspect of David's spiritual life: his delight in the company of those who share his devotion to the Lord, standing in stark contrast to the allure of idolatry he rejects in the preceding verses.

Context

This verse is part of Psalm 16, a "Michtam of David," often translated as a 'golden psalm' or 'epigrammatic poem,' signifying its precious and enduring nature. After expressing his absolute trust in God as his only refuge and source of good (Psalm 16:1-2), David turns his attention to the community of faith. He declares that his delight is not in worldly pursuits or false gods, but in the true worshippers of Yahweh. This verse sets the stage for the psalm's triumphant conclusion about finding fullness of joy in God's presence (Psalm 16:11).

Key Themes

  • Delight in Godly Fellowship: David finds deep satisfaction and joy in the company of fellow believers. This highlights the importance of spiritual community for support and mutual encouragement.
  • The Identity of "Saints": The verse identifies God's people as "saints" and "excellent." This speaks to their unique calling and character, set apart by God for His purposes.
  • Value of Righteous Companionship: Choosing companions who are devoted to God is portrayed as a source of great personal delight and spiritual strength, contrasting with associations that lead to spiritual compromise.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms provide rich meaning:

  • "Saints" (Hebrew: qĕdōšîm - קְדֹשִׁים): This word literally means 'holy ones' or 'set apart ones.' It emphasizes that these individuals are consecrated to God, separated from the world for His divine purpose. It's not primarily about their moral perfection, but their designation by God.
  • "Excellent" (Hebrew: ʾaddîrîm - אַדִּירִים): This term means 'majestic,' 'noble,' 'mighty,' or 'glorious.' It describes the spiritual stature and moral uprightness of those who truly follow God. They possess qualities that reflect God's own character and wisdom.
  • "Delight" (Hebrew: ḥēfeṣ - חֵפֶץ): This signifies a strong desire, pleasure, or satisfaction. David's delight in these individuals is profound and genuine, arising from shared faith and values.

Practical Application

Psalm 16:3 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today:

  • Value Christian Community: We are called to find joy and strength in fellowship with other followers of Christ. Just as David delighted in the saints, we should seek out and cherish relationships with those who are committed to God. This mutual support is vital for spiritual growth, as seen in Hebrews 10:25.
  • Embrace Your Identity: As believers, we are indeed "saints" and "excellent" in God's eyes, set apart and made noble through Christ. This truth should shape our self-perception and inspire us to live lives worthy of this high calling.
  • Be a Source of Delight: We are challenged to be the kind of "excellent" individuals in whom others can genuinely find spiritual delight, reflecting the grace and character of God in our lives. Our conduct should affirm our identity as God's chosen ones (1 Peter 2:9).
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified 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.