Brother Lawrence says in his letter recorded in the book, The Practice of the Presence of God, "... if in this life we would enjoy the peace of paradise we must accustom ourselves to a familiar, humble, affectionate conversation with Him."  The psalms that David wrote are surely evidence of such an intimate relationship.  This psalm, number 16, is a testimony of that.

" Preserve me, O God, for I take refuge in Thee. I said to the Lord, 'Thou art my Lord; I have no good besides Thee'" ( 1-2) 

"The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and my cup." (5)

" I will bless the Lord who has counseled me;..."

" I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken." (8)

" For Thou will not abandon my soul to Sheol" ( v10)

"Thou wilt make known to me the path of life; in Thy presence is fulness of joy; in Thy right hand there are pleasures forever." ( v11)

My Adonai, my Sovereign Ruler,  I take refuge in You.  You are my shelter, my protector, and my confidant, in Whom I put my trust.  You are my inheritance, my portion, my cup, my lot, my heritage, for You have determined my beginning and my end.  You have given me a place in Your kingdom, in Yourself, and it is beautiful and perfect for me.  You counsel me, You are my advisor, and You guide my path and give me purpose.  I set You before me as my compass and my finish line. I am heading straight for You.  You are before me and beside me, so I do not need to worry or fear, but rejoice and rest securely in Your care.  You will never abandon me, even in death.  You will instruct me along this path, this road, this race;  of life.  You will bring me into Your Presence where there is fulness of joy and eternal pleasure.  

How can I ever thank You enough, O Lord, for Your kindness towards me?  Like others before me, I want to live in this familiar, humble, intimate relationship with You. May it be so.. amen.