Psalm 1 (NIV)
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
Explanation:
Psalm 1 is a wisdom psalm, offering instructions regarding good and evil. We can be blessed or cursed depending on the path we choose. The main idea here is that happiness is found through living a life according to the guidelines set by the Lord. The way to destruction is to lead an evil, lawless life.
This sounds simple, doesn’t it? Just follow the word of God and be happy. Not so fast. This comes with a lot of saying, “No.” It takes discipline, self-control, and purposeful determination. We need to remain in constant prayer and seek Him in all things. When we get wrapped up in the chaos of life, we sometimes forget. We become complacent. This can actually be dangerous. We need to be vigilant in our walk with Christ. Are we surrounding ourselves with godly people? Are we getting godly counsel? Or are we getting bad advice from sinners, mockers, and scorners? It’s okay to keep company with sinners, but it’s not okay to stay long. Jesus kept company with the broken, but not to be like them. He did it to show the broken His example. Psalm 1 teaches us to be careful of who and what we listen to. If we associate with mockers and scorners, we run the risk of letting evil seep in.
Another message of Psalm 1 is whatever we are serious about is what we are going to immerse ourselves in. We should be ruminating in the word. Delighting in the word is the path to true happiness. We need to consciously, actively engage it. Don’t simply read it. Savor each word and turn them into action.
A tree really is the best metaphor here. Are you seeking the water? Do you have roots, or are you simply standing? Will you blow over in the storm, or are your roots strong? Seeking the word daily will provide muscle memory, which will result in strong roots and fruit. If you find pleasure in the law of the Lord, you will seek Him. When you seek Him, you will begin to trust Him. When you trust Him, you will be blessed, because the Lord watches over the righteous. Trust in the Lord, no matter what is going on around you.
If you have ever been through any kind of emotion, the book of Psalms has you covered. Take time and delight in His word.
Application:
What is your passion? What are you serious about?
Think of times when you have kept the company of mockers and scorners. How did that work out?
What are some ways you delight in the Lord and build muscle memory?
Devo Plus:
Watch this video on Psalm 1: Rooted In The Word
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, break our hearts wide open to delighting in and living by Your word. Help us understand the way to happiness is through living life according to the guidelines You have set for us. Remind us to cherish Your word, so we may grow roots and be the ninety-nine.