Integrity in Relationships
Psalm 15:1–5
David's song explores the characteristics of a person who enjoys fellowship with the Lord in this life with seven facets of integrity. As you consider each one, take note of the Lord's emphasis on relationships.
Who enjoys fellowship with God?
Facets of integrity
Psalm 15:2–5
David's song, Psalm 15, opens with a probing question about our experience of fellowship with God in the temporal realm, our relationship with Him in daily life. He wanted to know what characteristics mark the person who is able to enjoy unencumbered, uninhibited association with the almighty Creator of the universe. Inspired by the Holy Spirit in his writing, David received and then recorded the Lord's reply.
The answer
He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness,
And speaks truth in his heart.
Fellowship with God
Psalm 15:1
If you read Psalm 15 carefully, you will discover the entire song all hangs upon the first verse. Verse 1 is crucial in that it asks a probing question. That's today's devotional. David's answer forms the rest of the psalm. He then arrives at a wonderful promise. A Simple outline could be:
- Question: “Who may abide in Your tent?” (v. 1)
- Answer: “He who walks with integrity.” (vv. 2–5)
- Promise: “He will never be shaken.” (v. 5)
The question
David's psalm opens with a probing question, put in the form of a metaphor.
A song of new hope
Psalm 13:5–6
As David's song—preserved for us as Psalm 13—reaches its climax, David's posture has changed once again.
David on his feet
But I have trusted in Your loving kindness;
My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.
I will sing to the LORD,
Because He has dealt bountifully with me (vv.5–6).
Looking to God
Psalm 13:3–4
As I read Psalm 13 and reflect on the section describing David on his face, overwhelmed with grief and hopelessness, I see two practical areas of application:
Going it alone
Psalm 13:1–2
Psalm 13 begins where the despondent person spends most of his or her time: flat on the ground, crushed under the weight of sorrow. In the first section of the song, we see ...
David on His Face
How long, O LORD? Will You forget me forever?
How long will You hide Your face from me?
How long shall I take counsel in my soul,
Having sorrow in my heart all the day?
How long will my enemy be exalted over me (Psalm 13:1–2)?