Psalm 1:1 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,
The blessed life is disciplined life lived in the freedom of wise choices. There are boundaries that will not be crossed because they steal joy and blessings from us.
- The blessed one does not walk in step with the wicked. This one refused to follow the advice or counsel of the wicked. The wicked are guilty before God and before others therefore it is not wise to listen to their instructions. It will only bring sorrow and grief into your life!
- The blessed one refuses to follow the example of a sinner’s lifestyle. The verb “to stand” suggests remaining or abiding in the way of a sinner. All sinners miss the target of God’s best. Their rebellion only results in sadness; it is foolish to follow their example.
- The blessed one will not join in the folly of mockers. Mockers in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament are most entrenched in their rebellion against God. They are the least likely to repent and turn back to God. In Proverbs 3:34, God mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble and oppressed.
So, we have examined what a blessed one avoids. What does a blessed one prioritize?
Psalm 1:2 NIV
but whose delight is in the law of the LORD,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
To delight in the law of the LORD is the blessed one’s priority and practice. This delight is found 123 times in the Old Testament. (Read Psalm 37 and 40 to discover more about the everlasting pleasure you can find in God.)
The “law of the LORD” is his instructions for us. The Hebrew word is “torah.” It is found 223 times in the Hebrew Scriptures. God gave us instructions which define healthy boundaries as well as healthy pursuits in life. When we acknowledge these instructions are from the LORD, we respect and seek to apply them enthusiastically!
The heart’s delight becomes the mind’s pattern of thought. To meditate means to mull truth over in your mind. It is a practice that can transform our thinking (see Romans 12:2). Meditation is the digestion of truth. It does require concentration and time. So, the psalmist reminds us that it is an all day, every day pursuit.
As you memorize this Psalm, you have opportunities to think on it. I recommend you recite Psalm 1 each night as you fall asleep.
Until next time, live in the happiness of the Lord by keeping sound priorities!
Your servant,
Pastor Rick