BECOMING: The Tree Planted By the Water

Psalm 1

1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

6 For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

"He is like a tree planted by streams of water..."

Psalm 1 provides a roadmap for spiritual vitality. It encourages us to examine the foundation of our lives. It speaks to the stability and flourishing of the righteous. Like a tree deeply rooted near a constant source of nourishment, the one who meditates on God's word is constantly sustained, even in times of drought or adversity. The person who abides by divine instruction grows spiritually, bears fruit in season, and thrives in all aspects of life.

When we think of a tree, we picture something that is steady, deeply rooted, and resilient. It stands tall and is not easily shaken by winds or storms. So too, when we root our lives in God’s teachings, we are given strength, endurance, and a sense of purpose.

"Whose leaf does not wither..."

This phrase highlights the evergreen quality of a life lived in God’s truth. Just as the leaves of a healthy tree do not wither away during hard seasons, those who follow the path of righteousness are not worn down by life's difficulties. They remain vibrant and full of life, regardless of external circumstances. This isn't to say that followers of God don't face challenges—they do—but their inner strength remains intact because it is not dependent on temporary, worldly factors but on the eternal, unfailing stream of God’s grace.

Let’s aspire to be like the tree planted by the water, growing in strength, bearing fruit, and staying steadfast through all seasons of life. In doing so, we reflect the beauty and goodness of God to the world around us.

Are we rooted deeply in God’s Word, or are we blown about by the winds of the world?

 Are we drawing from the ever-present stream of His grace, or are we relying on our own limited resources?