Psalm 1 - 8.12.25

SCRIPTURE:  PSALM 1:1-3

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.

OBSERVATION

I love how this scripture uses action words to describe what a blessed person does not do. The first is they do “not walk in step with the wicked.” This is not only talking about walking with the wicked, but it means you’re not walking in the exact steps or the rhythm of the wicked. You’re not a partner with them in their lifestyle. Be careful of who you choose to walk or partner with in life.

The next action is to “stand in the way that sinners take.” Imagine a sinner taking a stand on a topic, or literally standing in the path of unrighteousness. Watch when, where and who you stand with or what you take a stand on.

Next we see the action to “sit in the company of mockers.” Sitting means you’re taking rest and comfort with people who mock the Lord. You’re accepting their mockery by sitting at their table. Be mindful of those who mock the Lord. Are you being a light to them or do you sit at their table and accept their mockery?

Then we see the contrast with those 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.” The picture painted here is so beautiful. This mighty tree shades an area by an active stream that continually runs all year long. The results bring forth lots of shade, fruit in the right season, strength from the storms of life – all because of taking delight – take pleasure, love, admire, and are at peace – in the Word (law of the Lord).

As a gardener, I know that consistent and deep watering causes roots to go even deeper into the soil. The amount of water, in well drained soil, will determine how deep the roots will go. If you only water for a short period of time, the roots will be shallow. If you water for a longer period of time, the roots will go deeper and deeper. Those deep roots not only protect the tree (or plant) but it creates an ability to withstand storms, excessive heat, and all that life can bring. Also, a deeply watered tree / plant will flourish, have many branches, leaves, flowers and fruit.

APPLICATION

Life is a long journey that takes us through many circumstances and situations. This Psalm shows how to be a blessed person in the process.  We can avoid actions that compromise our faith and take us down the wrong path, or we can be blessed in life when we meditate on His Word, are in prayer, seeking Him in worship, and immerse ourselves in the Lord so our roots in Him can go deep.

It’s important to understand as Christians we’re not supposed to isolate ourselves and completely avoid people who are not believers. God wants us to love all people!  The only way for us to share our faith is to do life together with non-believers. The difference here is to not partake in their lifestyle or belief, but bring them along in your life with Christ.

In Jesus’ prayer to God in John 17:16 - 19, He said “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.  As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth.”

Romans 12:2 says “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, your Word is a lamp unto my feet and light unto my path (Psalm 119:105). I delight in your Word and laws, knowing they guide me in Your ways. Help me to be a light to the non-believers around me. Protect me from partnering with anyone or anything that isn’t of you. The more I immerse myself in you, the less I want anything to do with things in this world. All I want is YOU!  Lord, help my roots to grow deeper and deeper in you to produce much fruit and able to withstand the storms in life. Praise you, Lord, for your living Word which is “active and sharper than any two edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12). In Jesus name. Amen!

- Mary Oberg