It Starts Small

¹³ The one I love is a sachet of myrrh to me,
spending the night between my breasts.

Songs 1:13

This verse is profoundly intimate! The bride adores the Groom, describing Him as a precious bundle of myrrh, resting tenderly close to her heart throughout the night. Myrrh, a symbol of healing and anointing, embodies both sacrifice and sweetness. This is not fleeting affection; it is a steadfast presence. Spiritually, the imagery of constant nearness illustrates what it truly means to abide in Christ. His presence is not something we reserve solely for moments of worship; it envelops the very atmosphere of our hearts. The long, dark seasons of life—the unknowns, the waiting, the weariness—are unmistakably transformed when we embrace the One who is our healer and peace. Theologically, this verse beautifully reflects our union with Christ. We are not merely forgiven; we are indwelt. Christ lives within us, drawing near, not as a distant deity but as the Beloved who continually remains by our side.

⁸ I always let the Lord guide me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.

Psalms 16:8

Because He is near, we are unshaken.

Psychologically, sustained closeness serves as the unwavering bedrock of secure attachment. When we are enveloped in consistent love, our deepest fears melt away, and our identities find their grounding. We transcend the shadows of abandonment and uncertainty, embracing a profound sense of communion. Neuroscience reveals that when an individual feels both emotionally and physically safe, the brain surrenders to a state of rest and healing. The notion of myrrh resting gently upon the chest echoes the activation of our parasympathetic nervous system, unleashing soothing responses. In essence, love not only calms the body but also revitalizes the mind, crafting a sanctuary where peace and restoration flourish.

When you embrace Christ with fervor – when He transforms from a mere idea into a profound reality – you embark on a journey through life that ignites your very soul. His gaze, presence, and unwavering nearness orchestrate every moment of your days and nights. You are never lost in the shadows; instead, you are fiercely cherished and lovingly held.

Journal Prompt:

• What areas of your life need the calming, healing nearness of Jesus right now?
• Are you allowing Him to rest close, even in the night?

Practical Steps and Application:

1. At bedtime, place your hand on your heart and thank Jesus for His nearness.
2. Memorize Psalm 16:8 and pray it when you feel unsettled.

Deeper Introspection:

Read the Psalm 16.

¹ Protect me, God, for I take refuge in you.
² I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
I have nothing good besides you.”
³ As for the holy people who are in the land,
they are the noble ones.
All my delight is in them.
⁴ The sorrows of those who take another god
for themselves will multiply;
I will not pour out their drink offerings of blood,
and I will not speak their names with my lips.

⁵ Lord, you are my portion
and my cup of blessing;
you hold my future.
⁶ The boundary lines have fallen for me
in pleasant places;
indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.

⁷ I will bless the Lord who counsels me—
even at night when my thoughts trouble me.
⁸ I always let the Lord guide me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.

⁹ Therefore my heart is glad
and my whole being rejoices;
my body also rests securely.
¹⁰ For you will not abandon me to Sheol;
you will not allow your faithful one to see decay.
¹¹ You reveal the path of life to me;
in your presence is abundant joy;
at your right hand are eternal pleasures.

Psalm 16

Here are journal prompts for reflecting on and applying Psalm 16:8. The verse states, “I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken”.

Reflecting on setting God before you

• A conscious decision: The phrase “I have set the Lord always before me” is an active choice, not a passive one. Consider what it means to actively set God before you daily. What are the practical steps to make this a reality, especially when distracted?
• Remembering His faithfulness: What are examples from the past where God has proven his faithfulness? How can you intentionally recall these memories to “set the Lord before you” when feeling insecure or forgetful?
• The contrast of worldly idols: The psalm contrasts David’s trust in the Lord with those who “run after other gods” (Psalm 16:4). Reflect on any “other gods” you are tempted to chase, such as success or comfort. How can the conscious choice to set the Lord before you help resist these distractions?

Reflecting on being unshaken

• God’s supporting presence: The phrase “because he is at my right hand” is an image of God’s close support and divine strength. What challenges or uncertainties in your life currently make you feel “shaken”? Consider what it would mean to genuinely believe God is right there, ready to uphold you.
• The source of gladness: Following Psalm 16:8, David writes, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices” (Psalm 16:9). The stability of God’s presence is the source of joy. How does the assurance of God’s closeness produce gladness and hope?
• An eternal perspective: The context of Psalm 16 points to an eternal hope that transcends earthly life (Psalm 16:10–11). How does the hope of God’s eternal presence and resurrection assurance provide an unshakable foundation?

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