True Roots
He is like a tree planted beside flowing streams that bears fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
Psalm1:3 (CSB)
The Psalmist contrasts the ways of the wicked with the ways of the righteous in Psalm 1. The writer emphasizes the necessity of aligning oneself with the ways of the Lord by allowing His Word to govern one’s life. This approach to life happens when there is a genuine delight in the Word, and the placement of the Word in one’s life serves as the foundation of one’s existence.
Seek to Pursue Godliness (1-2). The Psalmist begins with the genuine joy found in the pursuit of godliness. The first step in following God’s ways is the commitment to avoid the path of the wicked, sinners, or mockers. The Psalmist urges believers not to heed the voices of this world that do not align with God’s Word or ways. Therefore, the Psalmist encourages believers to take delight in the Lord’s instructions and to meditate on them continually. This consistent meditation keeps the Word of God at the forefront of one’s mind and heart. By placing the Word at the center, we enable the pursuit of righteousness and the ability to walk in accordance with the Lord’s ways. We must find joy in the Lord’s instructions today and strive to maintain an attitude that continuously meditates on the Word of God.
Establish Life By Living Waters (3). The Psalmist provides an illustration to reveal the life of one who constantly meditates upon the Word of God. The visual is that of a fruit-bearing tree that finds constant nourishment from the flowing stream. When we plant our lives in the Word of God, we gain access to the necessary, constant nourishment that allows us to bear spiritual fruit. Thus, our lives become established by the Lord.
No Purpose Leads to Perishing (4-5). The Psalmist speaks of destruction coming to the wicked. This destruction arises from their refusal of the Lord. Their hearts are centered on themselves, influenced by the flesh, and seeking to live for themselves rather than for the Lord. Choosing to stray from the Lord is a decision that carries eternal ramifications. The Psalmist illustrates the nature of their lives by comparing them to chaff that is blown away because there is no grounding. We must be grounded in Christ through faith and grow in our faith by being rooted in the Word. Such a life is anchored and escapes the impending judgment of those living as enemies of the Lord.
Trust God to Lead (6). The Psalmist concludes with a promise and a calling. He notes that the Lord is always watching over the way of the righteous. This promise shows that the Lord cares for His own and walks with them and before them as they seek to follow His guidance. The calling stems from the promise, as believers are encouraged to immerse themselves in the Word. The same promise and calling are relevant today. We must learn to rest in the assurance of the Lord’s presence, providence, and work in our lives, while also striving to immerse ourselves in the constant nourishment of God’s Word.
QUESTIONS
What steps can you take to stay rooted in God’s Word to receive the essential, ongoing spiritual nourishment necessary for bearing fruit?
How can you deepen your walk with the Lord and learn to trust His leading in a deeper manner?
