Psalm 1 sets before us two paths: one of blessing for those who refuse wicked counsel and delight in God’s law, and one of emptiness for those who follow the way of the wicked. The person who delights in God’s instruction is pictured like a tree planted by streams of water, fruitful, steady, and flourishing, while the wicked are like chaff blown away. Let this remind you to choose daily what you feed your mind on: steady nourishment from God’s Word produces life and lasting fruit.

If someone does not do what wicked people tell him to do,
    if he does not join with sinners,
    if he does not meet with those who laugh at God,
God has blessed that person!
He is happy when he obeys the Law of the Lord.
He thinks about God’s Law during the day and at night.

He will become like a tree that grows beside streams of water.
    It gives its fruit at the right season.
    Its leaves do not fall off.
Everything that person does will have a good result.
But wicked people are as empty as chaff.
    The wind blows them away.
So they will not go free when God judges them.
Sinners cannot join with God’s people,
    the people who are right with God.
The Lord takes care of people who respect him.
But wicked people are living in a way that will take them to a bad end.

Father God, help me refuse the easy pull of wrong company and quick approval. Plant me by your living water so I may bear fruit in season, keep my leaves green, and live in ways that honor you. Give me delight in your Word, wisdom to choose the right path, and courage to stand when others drift. Love You, thank You, praise You and give You all the honor and glory in Jesus Precious Name Amen.