Psalm 1: 1-3
1 Happy are those
who do not follow the advice of the wicked
or take the path that sinners tread
or sit in the seat of scoffers,
2 but their delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law they meditate day and night.
3 They are like trees
planted by streams of water,
which yield their fruit in its season,
and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper.
Have you ever heard the phrase, “they are running with the wrong crowd?” Like the verse from Proverbs 13:20 about becoming wise by spending time with wise people, we are a lot like the company that we keep. If we spend good time with those who are supportive, kind, and make good choices, our own lives will often fall in the same vein. However, if we surround ourselves with those who do not live out the gospel, we run the possibility that we could also make the same choices.
The wisdom that comes from this Psalm is filled with images of nature that are peaceful and comforting. God invites us to take cues from the strength of nature around us. If we look at the trees and plants that are thriving, we can see that they are planted in good spots with water and nutrients. God similarly invites us to plant ourselves in relationships that nurture and support us so that we can grow to our own greatest potential.
Who are the people in our lives that provide us support? How do we support those around us and help them seek God?
Prayer
God of comfort and care, we are grateful for the wisdom that you provide. Thank you for encouraging us to take good care of ourselves and those around us by seeking your wisdom, support, and good company. We celebrate those people in our lives that bring us strength and comfort. Please give us strength and wisdom to reflect your love to others.