“He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.” Psalm 1:3
Devotion:
In Psalm 1:1-2, the Bible portrays a blessed person who refuses to heed the counsel of the wicked or shape their life according to the ways of sinners. Instead, they love God’s word and invite it to shape every aspect of their lives. Psalm 1:3 paints a vivid picture of what life looks like for such a person—a tree.
We’ve all seen sickly, dry, and rotten trees, mirroring the state of our lives without fellowship with God, His word, and His counsel. However, this is not the destiny of the one who delights in the law of the Lord.
A tree planted by water finds sustenance, fulfilling its purpose by bearing fruit and weathering changing seasons with healthy, attached leaves. This mirrors the blessed person drawing life from the word of God.
Often, we seek sources of life around us, hoping certain things will energize and sustain us. Yet, these sources are temporary and fading. In contrast, the law of the Lord lasts forever— a sturdy support and an indestructible source of joy.
While the blessed person prospers, it’s crucial to temper our understanding with the reality of Jesus’ life. Jesus, the Blessed Man of Psalm 1, faced false condemnation, abandonment by His closest friends, and crucifixion. How can we call that prosperous? Because, in the midst of the worst troubles Jesus consistently enjoyed fellowship with God, was empowered to fulfill His mission, and was ultimately resurrected to glorious life. This demonstrates that Psalm 1:3 isn’t a promise that shields from trouble in this life. Instead, it assures those who delight in the law of the Lord that they will enjoy fellowship with God, be empowered to fulfill their calling, and, through Jesus, be resurrected to glorious life forever.
Prayer:
Lord, transform us into trees planted by streams of water. May our lives bear the fruit of worship, goodness, and love. We yearn to be healthy and flourishing, sustained by Your Word. Unable to withstand life’s trials, we turn wholly to You.
Thank You for revealing Your perfect plan in Jesus Christ. Our hearts are lifted knowing that He enjoyed fellowship with You even in the worst situations. Filled with hope by His resurrection, set our hearts on the glory that awaits us, drawing us deeper into Your Word. In Jesus’ name, we worship and pray.
Amen.
