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

1 Timothy 5 - 8.11.25

Scripture

1 Timothy 5:24-25

24 The sins of some are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. 25 In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden forever.

Observation

The book of 1 Timothy is a letter from the Apostle Paul to Timothy, who was his spiritual son and mentee. Paul had to leave Ephesus, but he wanted Timothy to stay. (Zondervan’s Compact Bible Dictionary)

In this portion of the letter, he is giving Timothy a summary of how to treat people in the church. (Enduringword.com)

“In addition, Paul strongly warns Timothy to use much caution in selecting elders (1 Tmothy 5:22-25). Both sins and good deeds can be hidden from the eyes of other people. God, however, is well aware of them.” (Bibleref.com)

Although 1 Timothy was written from one seasoned pastor to a newer pastor, we can learn a lot about integrity from this passage. 

Application

Live a life of integrity. 

The best definition for integrity that I have heard is being the same person when no one is looking as when people are looking. It is to be honest and consistent. 

It is better to be caught doing good than caught doing bad. The latter, when exposed, has messed up so many ministers’ lives and testimonies in Christ.  However, when the good is exposed, it leads others to praise God (Matthew 5:16, 1 Peter 2:12)!

I love how it says in verse 25 that even the good deeds, which may not be obvious, cannot remain hidden forever. That is such an encouragement, especially when we feel that the good we are doing or have done is not being seen. Scripture says that God sees ALL of it! 

Everything we do in private is seen by God; both good and bad. Let’s focus on the good. It always pays when we choose to live a life of integrity. It glorifies God! 

Prayer

Dear Lord,

I know that it’s impossible to live a life of integrity apart from You. Change my heart to be like Yours. Help me to always seek to do good to others. Help me to always live consistently whether I am seen or not seen. May my life point others to You alone Jesus. Amen. 

-Michelle Gaddi

1 Timothy 2 - 8.8.25

Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1-4

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 

Observation:

Paul wants the believers to make:

• Petitions - which is praying specifically for needs,

• Prayers - talking to God believing for the best for others and seeking His wisdom. (This is my idea after trying to look up what this means exactly.)

• Intercessions - a more fervent plea to stand in the gap for another.

• Thanksgiving - expressing gratefulness 

For ALL People.

Then he adds “for kings and those in authority” as if to say - YES THESE FOLKS are included too!

In the time this was written Israel was under Roman rule.  They were not happy with their leadership.  I imagine they also were not pleased with some of the religious leaders either since they rejected Jesus as the Messiah and crucified Him.

Paul points out that this pleases God who wants all people to be saved and come to knowledge of the truth.  He also highlights a favorable result, living peaceful, holy, quiet lives.

Application:

I need to remember to pray for all leaders.  God loves each and every one and wants them to come to know Him.  This is an easy task to forget.  I need to post sticky notes or set reminders digitally so I will not just pray as an election is coming, but consistently throughout my week.

I also want to be more fervent in praying for bosses, co-works, and our church leadership.  They have influence and a heavy load.  I want to be on the lookout for answers to those prayers and rejoice in God’s handiwork.

I also need to be thankful.  That can be hard when I pull up to the pump, or hear of another decision that does not make sense.  I know being thankful is there for a reason.  It changes us and our perspective. We can always find something to be thankful for, although some require more effort than others.  When I do I can see God at work.  He will change my heart and bring blessings. 

Prayer:

Dear Lord,

No leader comes to power without your approval.  You are using them to guide the future.  Please forgive me for being negative at times. Please help me to bless and not curse.  As gratefulness flows through me may I remember to pray for needs, wisdom for the task you have given them, and most of all they would come to know you.

Amen

- Cindy Howard