Psalm 1 - What does it tell us?

 PSALM 1

Psalm 1:1 

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

This verse highlights the importance of choosing the right influences in life. A person is truly blessed when they avoid ungodly advice, do not follow the sinful ways of the world, and do not join those who mock or reject God. Instead, they should seek wisdom, righteousness, and the company of those who honor God.

Psalm 1:2 

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

A righteous person finds joy in God's Word and continually reflects on it. Instead of following worldly influences, they seek wisdom and guidance from Scripture, making it a part of their daily life. This constant meditation on God's truth leads to spiritual growth, strength, and a closer relationship with Him.

Psalm 1:3 

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

A person who delights in and follows God's Word is compared to a strong, well-nourished tree. Just as a tree planted near water flourishes and bears fruit at the right time, those who stay rooted in God's truth will grow spiritually, remain steadfast, and experience true success in God's eyes. Their life will be fruitful, and they will not fade away in difficult times.

Psalm 1:4 

The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

Unlike the righteous, the ungodly have no firm foundation. They are compared to chaff - light, useless husks separated from grain - that are easily blown away by the wind. This symbolizes their instability and lack of lasting purpose. Without God, their lives lack true meaning and direction, and they will not stand firm in times of judgment.

Psalm 1:5 

Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

The ungodly will have no place in God’s final judgment. They will not be able to withstand His righteousness or be counted among the faithful. This verse highlights the separation between the righteous and the wicked - while the righteous stand firm before God, the sinful will face the consequences of their choices and be excluded from His eternal blessings.

Psalm 1:6 

For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

God watches over and guides those who follow Him, ensuring they walk in His blessings and protection. However, those who choose a sinful path will ultimately face destruction. This verse emphasizes the contrast between two paths - one leading to life and the other to ruin. True security is found in following God’s way.

Biblical Example

A great example of Psalm 1 in action is Joseph (Genesis 37–50).  

• He avoided ungodly influences – Joseph refused to be influenced by his jealous brothers and later resisted the sinful temptation of Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:7-12).  
• He delighted in God’s ways – Even in difficult situations, he remained faithful to God, whether in slavery, prison, or as Pharaoh’s advisor.  
• He was like a tree planted by water – Despite hardships, Joseph prospered because God was with him. He eventually became a ruler in Egypt and saved many lives during the famine (Genesis 41:39-41).  
• The ungodly perished – His brothers, who acted wickedly, suffered guilt and fear until they repented and Joseph forgave them (Genesis 50:15-21).  
• Joseph’s life reflects the blessings of following God’s ways, as described in Psalm 1.

What we should Do

• Choose Godly Influences – Be mindful of the company you keep and the advice you follow. Avoid negative influences that lead you away from God.
• Delight in God’s Word – Make reading and meditating on Scripture a daily habit. Let it shape your thoughts, actions, and decisions.
• Stay Rooted in Faith – Just like a tree planted by water, stay connected to God through prayer, worship, and obedience to His Word. This will help you grow spiritually and remain strong in challenges.
• Trust in God’s Justice – Know that the ungodly may seem successful for a time, but their path leads to destruction. Righteousness leads to lasting blessings and God’s favor.
• Live with an Eternal Perspective – Focus on walking in God’s ways, knowing that He watches over the righteous and will reward their faithfulness.

Conclusion

• Psalm 1 highlights the clear contrast between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous, who delight in God's Word and follow His ways, are like a strong, fruitful tree that flourishes under His care. In contrast, the ungodly are unstable, like chaff blown away by the wind, with no lasting foundation.
• The chapter serves as a powerful reminder that our choices determine our destiny. Those who walk in obedience to God will be blessed, while those who reject Him will ultimately face destruction. True happiness and success come from living according to God's Word.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your Word that guides me in the right path. Help me to walk in righteousness, avoiding ungodly influences and delighting in Your truth. Strengthen my heart to meditate on Your Word daily so that I may grow like a tree planted by living waters. Let my life bear good fruit in every season, and may I always remain firm in Your presence. Protect me from the ways of the wicked, and lead me in the path that brings true blessings and eternal life.

In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.