Read
Psalm 1
Reflect
The Psalm begins with an interjection. The word “blessed” should not be read in a passive or dismissive way. As an interjection, it includes enthusiasm about the situation. Being blessed is a state of happiness that is worth expressing excitement.
So, what is all the excitement about? Psalm 1 illustrates a contrast of the blessed man with the wicked man. Or, to make it easier to remember, it is a contrast between the righteous and the unrighteous.
The righteous person is blessed. The unrighteous person is cursed. The righteous person is prosperous. The unrighteous is perishing. It is important to note that there is no middle ground. There is no third group of people. You are either among the righteous or you are among the unrighteous.
As you reflect upon this Psalm, note it is assumed the opposite of the blessed person is true of the wicked person. Not one human being, apart from the Lord Jesus Christ, has lived the blessed life described in this Psalm. So, to be the blessed person spoken of in the Psalm you must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Respond
Are you a blessed person? If you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, then you can answer “Yes!” If you answer “Yes”, then you must be careful to not get caught into the ways of the world. As a follower of Jesus Christ, you must place priority on God’s Word as the source of your guidance.
If you cannot answer “yes”, then I beg you to consider what Jesus Christ did for you. He lived the perfectly life because you can’t. He died on the cross to pay the penalty of your sin so that you don’t need to. He rose from the dead so that you could have eternal life. You can live the blessed life if you turn away from your sin, confess Jesus as Lord of your life, and walk in obedience to Him.
Let’s Talk About It
What do you find most difficult about letting the Word of God guide you versus the wisdom of the world?