◄ Psalm 101:6 ►
My eyes favor the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me; he who walks in the way of integrity shall minister to me.
Study Bible
My eyes
The phrase "My eyes" signifies the personal and intentional focus of the psalmist, traditionally understood to be King David. In Hebrew, the word for "eyes" is "עֵינַי" (eynay), which often symbolizes perception, discernment, and vigilance. In a spiritual sense, this indicates a deliberate and careful observation, suggesting that the psalmist is not passive but actively seeking out those who are faithful. This reflects a leader's responsibility to be discerning and wise, ensuring that those who serve alongside him are aligned with God's principles.

will be on the faithful
The phrase "will be on the faithful" underscores the psalmist's commitment to surround himself with those who are loyal and steadfast in their devotion to God. The Hebrew word for "faithful" is "נֶאֱמָנִים" (ne'emanim), which conveys a sense of trustworthiness and reliability. Historically, this reflects the importance of having a community or court of individuals who are not only loyal to the leader but also to the covenantal relationship with God. This choice of companions is crucial for maintaining integrity and righteousness in leadership.

in the land
"In the land" refers to the geographical and spiritual context of Israel, the Promised Land given to the descendants of Abraham. The Hebrew term "בָּאָרֶץ" (ba'aretz) is often used to denote not just a physical location but also a place of divine promise and blessing. This phrase reminds the reader of the covenantal relationship between God and His people, emphasizing that the faithfulness of individuals is to be lived out within the community and land that God has provided.

that they may dwell with me
The phrase "that they may dwell with me" indicates a desire for close association and fellowship. The Hebrew root "יָשַׁב" (yashav) means to sit, remain, or dwell, suggesting a sense of permanence and stability. This reflects the psalmist's intention to create a community of like-minded individuals who share the same values and commitment to God. It highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with those who will support and uphold one's spiritual and moral commitments.

he who walks in the way of integrity
"He who walks in the way of integrity" emphasizes the conduct and character expected of those who are to be in close fellowship with the psalmist. The Hebrew word for "integrity" is "תָּמִים" (tamim), which means complete, whole, or blameless. This phrase underscores the biblical principle that one's actions and lifestyle should reflect a wholehearted devotion to God. Walking in integrity involves living a life that is consistent with God's commandments and principles, demonstrating moral and ethical uprightness.

shall minister to me
The phrase "shall minister to me" indicates a role of service and support. The Hebrew root "שָׁרַת" (sharat) means to serve or attend to, often used in the context of priestly or Levitical service. This suggests that those who are chosen to be close to the psalmist are not only companions but also active participants in the work and mission of the leader. It reflects the biblical model of servant leadership, where those in positions of authority are supported by individuals who are committed to serving both God and their leader with integrity and faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events
1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 101, David is expressing his commitment to righteousness and integrity in his reign as king.

2. The Faithful of the Land
Refers to those who are loyal and devoted to God, living lives of integrity and righteousness.

3. The Way of Integrity
Represents a lifestyle characterized by honesty, moral uprightness, and adherence to God's commandments.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Integrity
Integrity is a key characteristic for those who wish to serve and dwell with God. It involves consistency in moral and ethical principles.

God's Watchful Eye
God actively seeks those who are faithful and live with integrity. This should encourage believers to strive for righteousness in their daily lives.

Community of the Faithful
Surrounding oneself with others who are committed to integrity can strengthen one's own walk with God.

Leadership and Integrity
Leaders, like David, are called to model integrity, influencing those they lead to pursue righteousness.

Dwelling with God
Living a life of integrity is not just about personal morality but is a prerequisite for a close relationship with God.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the concept of integrity in Psalm 101:6 compare to the qualities listed in Psalm 15 for those who may dwell with the Lord?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives reflect the "way of integrity" mentioned in Psalm 101:6?

3. How does the idea of God’s eyes being on the faithful encourage you in your personal walk with Him?

4. What practical steps can you take to cultivate a community of integrity around you, as suggested by the focus on the "faithful of the land"?

5. How can leaders today apply the principles of integrity from Psalm 101:6 in their leadership roles, both in the church and in secular settings?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Psalm 15
This psalm also emphasizes the qualities of those who may dwell with the Lord, highlighting integrity and righteousness.

Proverbs 11:3
Discusses the guidance of integrity and the destruction that comes from duplicity, reinforcing the value of walking in integrity.

1 Samuel 16:7
God looks at the heart, not outward appearances, aligning with the focus on inner integrity in Psalm 101:6.

Matthew 5:8
Jesus speaks of the pure in heart seeing God, connecting to the idea of the faithful dwelling with Him.

1 Peter 2:12
Encourages believers to live such good lives among the pagans that they may see their good deeds and glorify God, similar to the call for integrity in Psalm 101:6.
Sermons
The Encouragement of the UprightR. Tuck Psalm 101:6
The King and His CourtPsalm 101:6
A Song of Mercy and JudgmentW. Arnot.Psalm 101:1-8
Mercy and JudgmentCarus Wilson, M.A.Psalm 101:1-8
Mercy and JudgmentJ. J. Wray.Psalm 101:1-8
Mercy and Judgment a Subject for PraisePsalm 101:1-8
Mercy and Judgment in NatureHugh Macmillan, D. D.Psalm 101:1-8
One Man in Two CharactersHomilistPsalm 101:1-8
The Ideal of a Royal Life; Or, David's Mirror of a MonarchC. Short Psalm 101:1-8
The Psalm of Grave, Sweet MelodyE. A. Thomson.Psalm 101:1-8
The Secret of a Happy LifeS. Conway Psalm 101:1-8
The Twofold SongW. Jay.Psalm 101:1-8
The Twofold Song of the BelieverJ. Burns, D.D.Psalm 101:1-8
People
David, Psalmist
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Blameless, Dwell, Faith, Faithful, Favor, Integrity, Minister, Perfect, Servant, Serve, Serveth, Walk, Walketh, Walking, Walks
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Psalm 101:6

     8251   faithfulness, to God

Psalm 101:5-8

     8751   false witness

Library
Why Should we not Believe These to be Angelic Operations through Dispensation of The...
16. Why should we not believe these to be angelic operations through dispensation of the providence of God, Who maketh good use of both good things and evil, according to the unsearchable depth of His judgments? whether thereby the minds of mortals be instructed, or whether deceived; whether consoled, or whether terrified: according as unto each one there is to be either a showing of mercy, or a taking of vengeance, by Him to Whom, not without a meaning, the Church doth sing "of mercy and of judgment." …
St. Augustine—On Care to Be Had for the Dead.

Epistle xxxii. To Narses the Patrician.
To Narses the Patrician. Gregory to Narses, &c. Your most sweet Charity has said much to me in your letters in praise of my good deeds, to all which I briefly reply, Call me not Noemi, that is beautiful; but call me Mara, that is bitter; for I am full of bitterness (Ruth i. 20). But as to the cause of the presbyters [1555] , which is pending with my brother and fellow-bishop, the most reverend Patriarch John, we have, as I think, for our adversary the very man whom you assert to be desirous of observing …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

The Difference Between Union and Rapture. What Rapture Is. The Blessing it is to the Soul. The Effects of It.
1. I wish I could explain, with the help of God, wherein union differs from rapture, or from transport, or from flight of the spirit, as they speak, or from a trance, which are all one. [1] I mean, that all these are only different names for that one and the same thing, which is also called ecstasy. [2] It is more excellent than union, the fruits of it are much greater, and its other operations more manifold; for union is uniform in the beginning, the middle, and the end, and is so also interiorly. …
Teresa of Avila—The Life of St. Teresa of Jesus

The Barren Fig-Tree.
"There were present at that season some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, Nay: but, except …
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

The King --Continued.
In our last chapter we have seen that the key-note of "The Songs of the King" may be said to be struck in Psalm xviii. Its complete analysis would carry us far beyond our limits. We can but glance at some of the more prominent points of the psalm. The first clause strikes the key-note. "I love Thee, O Jehovah, my strength." That personal attachment to God, which is so characteristic of David's religion, can no longer be pent up in silence, but gushes forth like some imprisoned stream, broad and full …
Alexander Maclaren—The Life of David

Of Civil Government.
OF CIVIL GOVERNMENT. This chapter consists of two principal heads,--I. General discourse on the necessity, dignity, and use of Civil Government, in opposition to the frantic proceedings of the Anabaptists, sec. 1-3. II. A special exposition of the three leading parts of which Civil Government consists, sec. 4-32. The first part treats of the function of Magistrates, whose authority and calling is proved, sec. 4-7. Next, the three Forms of civil government are added, sec. 8. Thirdly, Consideration …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Sermons of St. Bernard on the Passing of Malachy
Sermon I (November 2, 1148.)[1005] 1. A certain abundant blessing, dearly beloved, has been sent by the counsel of heaven to you this day; and if it were not faithfully divided, you would suffer loss, and I, to whom of a surety this office seems to have been committed, would incur danger. I fear therefore your loss, I fear my own damnation,[1006] if perchance it be said, The young children ask bread, and no man offereth it unto them.[1007] For I know how necessary for you is the consolation which …
H. J. Lawlor—St. Bernard of Clairvaux's Life of St. Malachy of Armagh

Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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