He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper. The ungodly are not so, but are like the chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
—Psalm 1:3-6
The result of delighting in the Law of the Lord is illustrated here by a tree that is planted by a river, bearing fruit and never withering, followed by the interpretation of the metaphor: Those who meditate on and follow through with the plans and purposes of God and His Word will prosper in whatever they do.
In Joshua 1:8-9, we read, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. . . . For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” [Emphasis added]
From studying Joshua’s life, we see that prospering and having success are not defined as the absence of trials, tribulations, or battles, but rather the attainment of victory through them.
Are you interested in victorious living? Here’s the ticket: Set your moral compass, your priorities, and your definition of success by the Word of God, and you will be like a tree that is continually being watered. In other words, you will be fruitful in your endeavors, and even the non-spiritual elements of your life (represented by the leaves) will be blessed.
It isn’t so for the ungodly! They are described as “chaff driven away by the wind.” Many “church-goers” expect the blessings that follow obedience even as they continue to live in disobedience to the Word of God.
God has a better plan for you! He desires that you do His will, and to do that you must seek to know His will by studying His Word. The glorious result will be joy and peace in our hearts now, no matter what our circumstances may be, and an incredible future in eternity!
Excerpt from “Beside Still Waters” now available on Amazon.
