What is the meaning of Psalm 16:8?

I have set the LORD always before me

The psalmist speaks of a conscious, ongoing choice: “I have set the LORD always before me.” This is more than a passing thought; it is a settled posture of life.

• Priority: Every decision and desire is filtered through the reality of God’s presence (Proverbs 3:6, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight,”).

• Focus: Eyes fixed on the Lord keep distractions and anxieties from ruling the heart (Hebrews 12:2, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith,”).

• Fellowship: Continual nearness breeds confidence and joy (Psalm 25:15, “My eyes are ever on the LORD, for He will free my feet from the net,”).

Practical ways to “set” Him before us:

– Regular meditation on Scripture (Psalm 1:2)

– Ongoing conversation in prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

– Quick obedience to His promptings (John 14:21)

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Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken

“Right hand” imagery communicates strength, protection, and honor. To have the LORD there is to enjoy His personal guardianship.

• Protector: “The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is the shade on your right hand” (Psalm 121:5).

• Champion: “But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me” (2 Timothy 4:17).

• Rock‐solid security: “He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken” (Psalm 62:2).

Because of this unbreakable support:

– External turmoil cannot uproot inner stability (Isaiah 26:3).

– Spiritual opposition meets divine defense (Isaiah 54:17).

– Future uncertainties lose their power to intimidate (Romans 8:31).

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summary

Psalm 16:8 draws a straight line from deliberate Godward focus to unshakable stability. By continually placing the Lord in the forefront of heart and mind, and resting in His steadfast presence at our right hand, we stand firm no matter the circumstance.