Digesting God's WORD!

Returning to God’s Word.

Christian Standard Bible Psalm 1

How happy is the one who does not

walk in the advice of the wicked

or stand in the pathway with sinners

or sit in the company of mockers!

2 Instead, his delight is in the LORD’s instruction, and he meditates on it day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted beside flowing streams that bears its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. 4 The wicked are not like this; instead, they are like chaff that the wind blows away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand up in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6 For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to ruin.

Like a beacon of light piercing the darkness of a stormy night, the psalm illuminates and points to the truth, even when the falsehoods of our culture cloud our thinking. This affirmation of the way to true life is a testament to the power of faith.

Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary Commentary

Who walks not: This verse speaks of an increasingly deeper involvement with wickedness: “walking beside,” “standing with,” “sitting beside.” Similarly, the terms for the wicked are progressive: ungodly, sinners, and the scornful. The imagery of this verse presents an ideal righteous person—one who is in the world but quite unaffected by the world.

1:2 But his delight: The contrast is strong. Instead of finding enjoyment in entanglements with wicked persons, the godly person finds his or her deep enjoyment in the things of God, particularly the Word of God. The law of the LORD refers specifically to the Pentateuch, the first five books of the OT. The Hebrew word for law expresses the idea of God pointing out the path for life in fellowship with Him (19:7–11). Meditates means “to mumble” or “to speak to oneself” (4:4).

Biblical meditation is focusing the mind on Scripture.

The spiritual climate today reveals a world increasingly indifferent to God’s ways, embracing a philosophy of self-satisfaction and materialism. Communities that once upheld holiness have shifted towards what they perceive as progress, straying from the promise of Psalm 33:12. The church has also become complacent, and it is time to rise and stand for the Lord. I. A Separated Way (1) - Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly. We must maintain a different stride, not conforming to the world’s lowered standards. Our walk should reflect obedience to God, as seen in Psalm 37:23. We must also take a different stand, resisting the pressures to compromise our faith. Romans 12:2 calls us to be transformed, not conformed. Lastly, we should avoid sitting in the seat of the scornful, as this signifies a downward progression away from a separated life. II. A Satisfying Way (2) - True delight is found in the law of the Lord. This way is characterized by a desire for God’s Word, which provides comfort, direction, and nourishment. We must meditate on His precepts day and night, allowing them to transform our lives. Living for God should be a consistent commitment, not just a Sunday endeavor. III. A Situated Way (3) - Believers are like trees planted by the rivers of water, symbolizing stability and productivity. Our position in Christ ensures we are not tossed by life’s uncertainties. We are called to be fruitful and faithful, blooming in every season. Even in trials, we can remain vibrant, as our roots are deep in God. The promise of prosperity is not about material wealth but about living a life filled with joy and purpose in Him. In conclusion, we are challenged to live closer to the Lord in a world that is abandoning His ways. Reflect on your walk with Christ and seek Him earnestly.

Christian Standard Bible Psalm 4

Psalm 4:4

GOD’S WORD Translation Contempt

Contempt to ignore, disrespect, or look down on something or someone (

SCORNFUL — the act of expressing contempt toward others (Ps. 1:1). The scornful are proud, arrogant people who scoff at the way of peace and make mockery of goodness.

Christian Standard Bible Psalm 147

11 The LORD values those who fear him,

those who put their hope in his faithful love.

At home, you might find that the stresses of everyday life are weighing on you, leading to frustration and negativity. Consider setting aside 10 minutes each morning to read and meditate on Psalm 1. Focus on being like a tree planted by streams of water, drawing nourishment from God's Word. This disciplined practice can cultivate peace and resilience, helping you navigate familial challenges and fostering an environment of grace and encouragement at home.

In the workplace, you might be feeling pressured to conform to negative behaviors or gossip that undermine your values. Psalm 1 reminds you to seek wisdom and avoid the path of the wicked. Take time during your lunch break to reflect on a specific part of this Psalm. Perhaps even write down how you can integrate integrity and kindness into your work. This act of commitment not only keeps you grounded but can also influence your colleagues by modeling a Christ-like attitude.

What does Psalm 1 teach about the characteristics of a righteous person?

What does the sermon say about the consequences of ignoring wisdom?