Psalm 1:1-6

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.

This has been one of my life verses—one I’ve returned to many times. I especially love the image of the strong, majestic tree. Not only is it beautiful, stately, powerful, and unwavering, but its branches also extend outward, offering shade to others and providing food and shelter to small, seemingly insignificant and helpless creatures.

A tree takes time to grow, and its roots run deep into the earth, giving it a secure foundation. Though the enemy may come and try to cut us down, God will not allow it—if we have made Him our source of life. He will cause us to prosper and bear fruit in our season.

We won’t always feel like we’re bearing fruit, but the time will come if we remain faithful. This passage reminds us to avoid the path of sinners, reject the counsel of the ungodly and the scornful, and instead, to delight in the law of the Lord and meditate on it day and night.

Prayer

Lord, make me like a tree that is connected to you. Give me a fresh supply of Your Spirit today and teach me to meditate on Your word. Bless me and cause me to bear fruit when I am ready and use me to shelter the little ones that you placed in my life, both in my family and in my school. Keep me strong and secure and prosper all that I do. Thank you Lord Jesus, amen.