“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 on his law he meditates 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.” Psalm 1: 1-3 NIV
Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” Psalm 1: 1-3 NLT
This is the start of the book of Psalms. If you have ever wondered what the difference between Psalms and Psalm is? The whole book is called the book of Psalms. An individual chapter or verse is called a Psalm.
These three verses set the tone for the whole book of Psalms. They also describe what type of individual a follower of God should be.
Verse, one states that a man who delights in the word of the God will be blessed. The word or law here is not a burden to be followed or obeyed. It is in the word that you find the source of Joy, Peace, Satisfaction and Affection. It is the word that brings you close to God and you feel that closeness deep inside. It is the word that transforms you from desiring a walk with the world and your own wisdom to a walk with God leading. It will bring delight to your heart to be walking holding the hand of God.
The Hebrew word used in Psalm 1:1 for “blessed” is Ashray or Ashrei. Unlike a fleeting emotional feeling of happiness or mere good fortune, ashrei in the Hebrew Bible implies a deep, enduring state of well-being, alignment, and contentment that comes from walking in God’s ways or living a righteous, faithful life.
The follower of God does not live the same life or participate in the same things that “sinners” do. We do not read, watch or participate in activities that open the door to living a life that does not represent God’s Love. We don’t use social media to point out wrongs or condemnation of others. We do not sit around and talk or gossip about others. We do not participate in debates and arguments with others on the merit of God or doctrine. We do not walk by the destitute, widows and homeless without helping. You are called to be a different person in all walks of life. Your life in all aspects represents Love.
Verse two tells you how much time a follower of God spends in time with God and His word. To “meditate” means to constantly ponder, recite and chew on the entire word of God. To always be in prayer and conversation with God. You are to do this throughout the whole day, morning, afternoon, and evening. You are to be in this mindset at work and at play. The branch must stay fully connected to the vine every second of every day.
Verse three tells you the benefits of this type of life. This person has its roots planted on the rock of God and will be nourished in all types of circumstances. The water from God’s word will cure your thirstiness. This person will produce the wonderful fruit of the Spirit. The “prosper” that verse speaks of is not material wealth, but it is the promise of eternal walking with God. When you are planted with your roots in the word you will always bring glory to God and prosper in every situation.
The Three Jewish boys had their feet firmly planted in God and His word and they prospered by coming out of the fire after walking with God in the fire.
We greatly misunderstand the first part of these verses. The “way of Wicked” is not talking about doing evil things or the habits of world. These are all good things to stay away from. But the true meaning of the “way of the Wicked” are those that do not walk hand in hand with God and delight in His word by spending all day in close walk with God. This describes everyone that does not let the Holy Spirit transform them from the inside. Even those self-proclaimed Christians who trust in their own control and desires but refuse to put on the robe of Righteousness. The people that Jesus utters the words “I do not know you” are outwardly followers of Him but they never surrendered and walked with Him.
In all your ways spend the whole day walking with God, representing His Love for all to see.
Your prosperity comes in eternity.
Remember it is not a religion it is a relationship.
Prayers and Love for all.
Larry
