📖 Psalm 16:11 | Seeking Pleasure Throughout Scripture

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📧 In today’s email…

• 📖 Seeking pleasure throughout Scripture

• 🙏 Choosing True Pleasure Over the Fleeting

• 🔦 Community spotlight!

 🧠 Memorize

_{see if you know what words go in the blanks}

___ make _____ __ __ ___ ____ __ ____; 

in your ________ there __ ________ __ joy; at your _____ ____ are pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16:11

Seeking Pleasure Throughout Scripture 📖 

Yesterday, we explored Psalm 16:11 and learned that the Hebrew word for “pleasures,” nāʿîm (pronounced naw-eem’), refers to something delightful and lovely.

In Psalm 16, this word highlights the eternal joy found in God’s presence.

However, Scripture also contrasts these true pleasures with worldly ones:

1. Worldly Pleasures and False Security (Isaiah 47:8)

Isaiah warns Babylon, a “lover of pleasures,” about finding false security in indulgence and self-reliance.

This passage reminds us that seeking pleasure apart from God leads to judgment and loss, unlike the true security found in Him.

2. The Deceitfulness of Earthly Pleasures (Luke 8:14)

Jesus, in the Parable of the Sower, describes how the “pleasures of life” can choke spiritual growth.

Earthly pleasures can distract us from God and make our spiritual lives unfruitful.

3. Choosing Eternal Over Fleeting Pleasures (Hebrews 11:25)

Moses chose to suffer with God’s people rather than enjoy “the fleeting pleasures of sin.”

This example shows that sinful pleasures are temporary, while the rewards of following God are eternal and far more satisfying.

A Choice to Make 🤔

These verses teach that while God offers us true, lasting pleasure in His presence, worldly pleasures are often deceptive and can lead us away from Him.

We have a daily choice: will we seek the eternal joy found in God, or chase the temporary pleasures of the world?

👉 Reflect on where you are seeking your pleasures today, and ask God to help you find your joy in Him alone.

Choosing True Pleasure Over the Fleeting 🤝

Now that we understand the difference between eternal pleasures in God and fleeting worldly pleasures, the question is:

How can we cultivate a deeper delight in God’s presence?

Practicing to Delight in God’s Presence Today 🙏

Find some moments today to intentionally seek God’s presence and pleasure.

Here’s a simple rhythm to help you focus on God throughout your day:

• 🛑 Pause: Take a few moments today to pause and acknowledge God’s presence, whether it’s during your morning routine, when you’re on lunch break, or before bed.

• 🤔 Reflect: Meditate on Psalm 16:11, reminding yourself that true joy and pleasures are found in God alone.

• 🙏 Give Thanks: Practice gratitude by thanking God for His goodness and the joy of being in relationship with Him now.

• 👐 Worship: Spend time in worship, whether through music, prayer, or reading Scripture, to align your heart with God’s.

• 🗣️ Share: Discuss with a friend or family member how you’re experiencing God’s presence and joy today.

Community spotlight 🔦 

Community Feedback ❤️ 

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This is helping me seek God and gain understanding of His word. God bless you immeasurably more you can imagine. 🙏

J. W.

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Answer key ✅ 

You make known to me the path of life; 

in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16:11