Understand Psalms 1:1-2 What is it saying to you?

Good day, Beloveds!

As we step into this glorious new week, I joyfully pray that the Lord opens your heart to receive an abundance of His blessings! Amen!

In my journey of faith, I once thought that God viewed us all equally, showering His blessings uniformly upon everyone. However, reflecting on Psalm 1 has filled me with awe and gratitude, revealing a beautiful truth that transformed my understanding!

Psalm 1 presents us with two vibrant pathways in God's eyes. It’s not about how others perceive us or even how we see ourselves; God has a delightful benchmark for each of us. We are all uniquely crafted by our Creator, but how He relates to us depends on whether we are like sturdy trees or like chaff dancing in the wind!

You might wonder, “What does that mean? Tree and chaff? I’m a human!” Remember, the Bible often uses poetic language, inviting us to uncover the profound meanings behind these vivid images, even if they’re not meant to be taken literally.

There's a beautiful way of living for those who follow Christ. As you read this Psalm, take a moment for introspection. Let the Holy Spirit guide you, knowing that heartfelt conversation leads to repentance.

Let’s embrace the wonderful messages from Psalm 1 (NLT) with joyful hearts:

Psalms 1:1 NLT
[1] Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked stand around with sinners or join in with mockers.

Verse 1 tells us that there is joy in those who are selective about taking advice from others. As people, we tend to trust our friends and family when it comes to guidance. Have you ever paused to think, “Is this person led by the Spirit or their flesh? Do they live by the principles of the Bible?” We need to learn to discern the type of advice we receive. Many people think that wickedness applies only to criminals, but it can encompass any harmful guidance.

According to Merriam-Webster, “wicked” is defined as “morally very bad.” Some synonyms include bad, damaging, harmful, and hurtful. Is the advice you're receiving damaging, harmful, or hurtful? If so, then it is wicked advice, and we should refrain from following it, no matter our relationship with the person giving it, their age, or position. If they are sinning and we partake in that, we share in their guilt. Therefore, we should not accept such advice.

Furthermore, the verse tells us not to stand with sinners. This doesn’t imply that you are not a sinner; it means that, as Christians, we have an intention to obey Christ's teachings and commandments, breaking the cycle of habitual sin and living a life of repentance.

Merriam-Webster defines a “sinner” as “a person who sins.” Synonyms include wrongdoer and evildoer. The definition of “sin” is “transgression of the law of God,” with synonyms such as lawbreaking and wrongdoing. 

We often think of sin as something big and significant. However, in the eyes of our Lord, any wrongdoing constitutes sin. Do you find yourself standing with people while they sin and think, “As long as I’m not participating, it’s okay?” This verse teaches us that we cannot do that. For instance, if I don’t drink alcohol, but I sit with my drunk relatives at a wedding or listen to gossip without commenting, I am still violating verse 1. The consequence of such actions is the loss of the joy that comes from God.

Lastly, the verse states that we shouldn’t join the mockers. This isn’t saying they shouldn’t join us, but rather, we shouldn’t join them. You may wonder how we join the mockers. First, let’s understand what mockery entails.

According to Merriam-Webster, "mockery" is defined as “insulting or contemptuous action or speech.” Synonyms include jokes and laughingstocks. How often do we find ourselves making jokes about others? We might laugh at someone’s appearance, hairstyle, or misfortunes, making them the subject of mockery. If you partake in such behaviour, know that you have sinned.

**Reflection time:** 
Take a moment to think: Have I stood around with sinners? Have I taken wicked advice? Have I made a joke of someone or laughed when someone was made a laughingstock? This introspection is not easy, but it is necessary.

**Confession and Repentance:**
 Heavenly Father, thank You for the Holy Spirit, who has convicted me of my ways. Please forgive me for taking wicked advice, standing around with sinners, and joining the mockers. Help me to repent and change my ways, no matter the cost. In Jesus' name, Amen.

**Recommendation:** 
If these individuals are part of your close circle, share this testimony with them. Talk about how you used to partake in these behaviours but have learned through the Word of God that they do not bring glory to Him. Now you have decided to stop, with the help of the Holy Spirit. If they repeat these actions in the future, correct them with love, patience, gentleness, kindness, goodness, and self-control. It took you time to learn, and it will take them time as well.

[2] But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night.

In Christ, we find pure joy in the law of the Lord! While some may say that these laws were meant only for the Jews, the truth is that God's will for us is timeless and universal. Embracing the teachings of Christ brings us delight, even when following them may challenge us. 

Merriam-Webster defines "delight" as a high degree of gratification or pleasure, something that gives us immense joy. Think about that for a moment! Do you feel happiness and satisfaction in doing what is right? Does obeying the word of God fill your heart with gladness? It's a beautiful thing to reflect on! To truly know God’s law, we must immerse ourselves in the Bible, savouring its lessons and applying them in our lives. 

So, how can we meditate on the Word of God with joy? Start by reading a scripture that resonates with you. Look for words that spark curiosity and take time to rewrite the verse in your own words. Connect it to your life—how can this newfound wisdom guide you? For instance, when a friend suggested I speak harshly to my boss, I realized this advice strayed from God’s call to respect those in authority. Instead of reacting in anger, I could prepare my heart to respond in a Christlike manner, embracing love and grace instead.

Let’s think about the joy that comes from choosing obedience. If you live by verses 1 and 2, you become like a tree—strong, rooted, and vibrant! Your life can overflow with joy as you embody these beautiful truths. 

As we move into this week, let’s carry our hearts full of joy and share His love with those around us. Embrace the wonderful journey ahead, for it is one filled with grace and hope!

In Jesus' name. Amen!

Stay tuned for the next blog post (Psalm1: 3-4), where we'll explore more about the tree and the chaff and the richness of these teachings in detail!

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