“How happy is the man who does not follow the advice of the wicked or take the path of sinners or join a group of mockers! Instead, his delight is in the Lord’s instruction, and he meditates on it day and night. He is like a tree planted beside streams of water that bears its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” Psalm 1:1-3 HCSB

This first psalm highlights the blessing that comes with godly wisdom. It recognizes that our thought life is important, as it influences all that we say and do. Quite simply what we think, becomes how we feel and then our actions flow from our feelings. We live in a world that generally, does not follow the ways of God. It is so easy to absorb worldly attitudes and ways of thinking which can be contrary to God’s word. The writer here declares the wisdom of making the right choice in what we are listening to and meditating on.

Don’t Follow Worldly Wisdom

In verse one we see a progression, that if we follow worldly advice, we can find ourselves taking the wrong path. It may be following popular opinion but when we do, we can find ourselves in the company of those who not only do not believe in God, but who actively oppose the truth of God’s word. What may seem right to them, is not right or acceptable in God’s sight.

Instead there is a far better way for us, the way of blessing. True spiritual blessing is an inner happiness, a sense of assurance and well-being that comes from knowing the faithful love and care of a gracious God. Knowing, what we know. This is where we see the benefits of meditating on God’s word.

Follow and Meditate on Scripture

Meditating on scripture is not some mystical practice. It is quite simply pausing to reflect on God’s word, to take the time to focus on its meaning and to absorb it into our minds. Meditating is not the same as memorizing scripture. We may take a verse or part of a verse to reflect on, but really it is dwelling on the thought and the concept of the verse rather than reciting the verse. As we meditate on scripture it will lead us to prayer, to talking with God about our thoughts and feelings. Are they in line with His word or is there an adjustment to make?

Meditating is aligning our thoughts with God’s word, by immersing our thoughts in God’s Word.

What we meditate on today may not always bring immediate insight or blessing, but it is deepening our faith and developing our relationship with God. Meditating on God’s word develops a grateful and thankful heart and changes our perspective and outlook on life. As we spend time reflecting and developing a love for God’s word, we put down spiritual roots. This is how we become healthy and strong, like the tree that is planted by streams of water. We are feeding our spirit with the water of life and when a season of drought comes, we will have deep roots to sustain us. When the season of producing fruit arrives, we will have an abundance to share and be able to bless others. It is by meditating on God’s word that we not only survive but can thrive through the seasons of life.

“Help me understand the meaning of Your precepts so that I can meditate on Your wonders.” Psalm 119:27 HCSB