Psalm 1

It is my goal over the next 150 days to read one Psalm each day (in addition to my regular Bible reading and other reading).

Most of the Psalms are quite brief, but, as you well know, contain great power! They are truly great treasures.

I hope to publish a few brief devotional thoughts from each of the psalms as I get a chance. These will not be anything profound, but may help you in your own Bible study.

Psalm 1

1. I’ve been fascinated for a long time with the progression that is seen in verse 1 (“walks,” “stands,” “sits”). I use this verse often to talk to young people about the dangers of getting ever closer to sinful people and situations. If we can avoid walking by it, we’ll for sure avoid sitting amongst it!

2. David calls the law of the Lord “a delight” for the blessed man. I think it is interesting that he doesn’t just say “the word of the Lord,” but, rather the law! How many today need to be reminded that God’s commands are not grievous (or burdensome; cf. First John 5:3)?

3. The psalm contains a beautiful picture of a tree planted by the water (yes, Amber, it’s okay to be humming the song!). Often, growing up, we would travel over the Mississippi River and see those huge trees just a few yards from the largest river in North America. They had been there hundreds, and possibly thousands, of years because they were constantly nourished by the waters of the mighty Mississip. If we stay constantly close to God and His Word, we are the ones who benefit from the nourishment it provides.

4. Take the time to note the contrast with the ungodly, found in verse 4-5. Trees don’t move very easily; chaff doesn’t just moved, it is moved. A lack of foundation (roots) equals one who is easily moved.

5. Verse six is a constant reminder that God knows all we do. Let’s make sure he sees us doing righteous things!