Psalm 1 is like a map showing us two very different paths in life. It’s short, but packs a powerful message. It starts by describing someone who’s truly blessed.
- “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” (Psalm 1:1, NIV).
Think about it: who are the “wicked,” “sinners,” and “mockers” in our world today? They might be the people who constantly put others down, spread negativity online, or encourage us to make bad choices. This verse isn’t saying we shouldn’t be kind to these people, but it’s warning us about letting their attitudes influence us. It’s like that saying “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Who are your five?
This reminds me a bit of the lyrics in Macklemore’s “Can’t Hold Us”: “No, no, he can’t hold us / Nothing can hold us / Nothing can hold us down.” While the song is about achieving dreams, it also touches on the idea of not letting negativity or obstacles hold you back. Psalm 1 encourages us to actively choose not to be held down by negative influences.
The Psalm goes on to describe what the blessed person does do.
- “But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night” (Psalm 1:2, NIV).
“Law” here isn’t just about rules; it’s about God’s way of life, his wisdom and guidance. “Meditating” means thinking deeply about it, reflecting on it. It’s like listening to your favourite song over and over, discovering new things each time. It’s about letting God’s word sink in and become a part of you.
Think of songs that inspire or give you hope. Maybe something like Lauren Daigle’s “You Say” which talks about finding strength and identity in God. That kind of repeated listening and reflection is similar to meditating on God’s word. It changes how you think and how you live.
The result?
- “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 1:3, NIV).
This is a powerful image! A tree planted by water is strong, healthy, and fruitful. It’s not easily shaken or withered. This isn’t promising riches or fame, but it’s about a life of stability, purpose, and blessing. It’s about living a life that matters.
The Psalm then contrasts this with the wicked.
- “Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away” (Psalm 1:4, NIV).
Chaff is the leftover husk of grain after it’s threshed. It’s light, worthless, and easily blown away. This describes a life without purpose or direction, easily influenced by the world around it.
Questions to Ponder
- Who are the “mockers” in your life? How do you deal with their influence?
- What does it mean to “meditate” on God’s word? How can you do that practically?
- What kind of “tree” do you want to be?
A Prayer
God, help us to choose the path of blessing. Help us to resist negative influences and to find our delight in your word. Make us like trees planted by streams of water, strong, fruitful, and unwavering.
A Blessing
May you be blessed with the wisdom to choose the right path. May you find strength and guidance in God’s word. May your life be like a fruitful tree, bringing blessing to yourself and to others. Amen.
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