Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 15

This psalm examines the character of the person who may dwell in the presence of YHWH, the God of Israel. It consists of a two-part question addressed to God in the first verse and the answer laid out in the rest of the psalm.

1 – The Question

The same question is addressed to the LORD in two different ways – what kind of person can dwell in your presence, LORD? What is the character of the person you would be pleased with?

Whether David had his answer from previous knowledge of the LORD or received a real-time answer upon his inquiry, the answer reveals four areas that characterize people acceptable to the LORD.

2-5 – The Answer

1. Private Integrity – honest in their heart and practise righteous living
2. Public Charity – do not speak of or do evil to others, just and kind
3. Virtue Lover – love good, hate evil, honour the godly and keep their word
4. Greed-Free – not lovers of money; will not disobey God or pervert justice for personal profit or gain

Those who may dwell in God’s presence reflect His character and values – privately pure and publicly kind, loving good works and not money. 

Such people are true seekers of God, who will never be shaken, and who will be found worthy to dwell in the presence of the LORD.