May 11

A Psalm Of Blessedness

Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. — Ps 1:1-2 BSB

The blessed, or happy, person is described negatively in Psalm 1:1. There is a progression in their attitude, their influences, and their companions. The attitude starts by walking, then moves to standing, and finally to sitting. To avoid sitting with the scornful, we must guard against walking or standing in the wrong places. The sphere of influence shifts from listening to bad counsel to walking in the way of sinners and eventually sitting in the company of mockers. The condition of those we associate with matters. If we were suddenly thrust into the company of mockers, we would likely be repelled. But we might not be as shocked by the counsel of the wicked, which often sounds reasonable, aligning with what our hearts desire. It can be so appealing that we slowly slide from merely listening to those who ignore God, to joining those who defy or blaspheme Him.

Our motives for interacting with ungodly people must be carefully examined. If we do so to help and save them, as Jesus did, we will remain unharmed. But if we seek their company for our own amusement, we shouldn’t be surprised when our moral sharpness dulls. Are we as shocked now by sin as we once were? Has something coarsened in us? Even when we are not directly harmed by worldliness, we can still suffer from being around lower spiritual ideals. We must be vigilant, watching and praying. Let us encourage one another daily, as Hebrews 3:13 warns, so that no one is hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

The blessed person is also described positively in Psalm 1:2. This delight in God’s law comes naturally to a healthy soul, like an appetite for food. When we find joy in God’s Word, we meditate on it continually, storing it in our hearts and recalling it wherever we are.

Remember, the Lord knows the path you take. He is aware of every bump, every challenge, and every smooth stretch. With Him watching over you, you will not become like the chaff that blows away, nor will you walk the path of the wicked that leads to ruin.

Prayer

We entrust ourselves and those we love to You, dear Lord. Take our hand and lead us on the untrodden way. Amen.