The Other Side: Week 4 - Thursday

You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. Psalm 16:11

Whether they realize it or not, every single human being born into this sinful world is born with a feeling that there is something more to this life here on earth. Some try to fill that desire with more stuff. Others try to meet that need with relationships. Some try to fill it with career and financial success. The truth is, none of these things will ever satisfy us. They will all fall short. Only Christ can truly satisfy our deepest needs. When we are in Heaven, our deepest needs will be met in Christ. 

David knew that only God and being in His presence truly satisfies, and he wrote about it in Psalm 16. David began this Psalm asking God for protection. He wrote, "Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge" (verse 1). He described the troubles that multiply among those who look to other gods for refuge and protection (verse 4). Next, he declared, "You alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing" (verse 5). As a result of all that God had done for him, David promised, "I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me” (verses 7-8). Why could David have such confidence? He had confidence because he knew God was with him. He concluded his Psalm, saying, "You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever" (verse 11). God is the one who brings life. Even more, there is unmatched joy in the presence of God. He fulfills every longing and desire of our hearts. He is the only one who can truly satisfy us, and when we spend eternity with Him forever, we will experience the joy and satisfaction that come from being in His presence. 

My friend, God is the only one who can meet your deepest needs. He alone can satisfy. Anything else will fall short. Nothing else can bring us the joy and peace that He brings. When we spend eternity with Him in Heaven forever, all of our peace, satisfaction, and joy will be met in Him. 

Moving Toward Action

Is there anything you have prioritized in your life above Christ? It could be a person, a career aspiration, or wealth. Confess that to God today. Acknowledge that none of these things can truly fulfill your deepest needs and longings. Confess that He alone can satisfy your needs and commit to letting go of anything else you have put above Him. 

Going Deeper

Psalm 16:1-11