“In your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalms 16:11, ESV). Ancient Hebrews enjoyed restating an idea in different words in order to emphasize and clarify ideas. In this verse David is thanking Yahweh that happiness is found by nearness to Yahweh. He declares three ideas in the first phrase then repeats them in other words in the second phrase. He states this idea twice; the first time he uses the words “joy” and “presence”. The second time he uses the word “pleasures” and “right hand”. He adds the words “fullness” and “forevermore” to the phrases to make sure that we understand that our happiness in Yahweh is unbounded.
Thus, through repetition David is declaring one of the supreme principles for life, a principle that provides comprehensive encouragement. All the things that people pursue to find deep happiness will not satisfy them. We have found the Source of ultimate happiness. We will find happiness as we trust in his presence, enjoy his presence when we sense it and put our hope in experiencing his direct presence forever.
