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In powerful, poetic language, Psalm 1 contrasts the godly with the wicked: The godly are like trees sinking their roots into the rich soil fed by flowing streams. They are strong, fruitful. In contrast, the wicked are worthless husks blown here and there by the wind. As we delve into this psalm's imagery, we discover what it means to develop godly character rooted deeply in the truths of God's Word.

Psalm 1

1. Reflect on these three words: "follow," "stand," "join" (v. 1). What do these words say about the behaviors of godless people?
   
   
2. What does it mean to "delight in the law" (v. 2)? How is delighting different from simply reading or studying?
   
   
3. Why do you think the psalmist said trees (v. 3) rather than tree? (See Ecclesiastes 4:12.)
   
   
4. Why does the psalmist point out that the godly "bear fruit each season"(v. 3)? Why is consistent fruitfulness essential? (See also Jeremiah 17:8.)
   
   
5. How does this psalm help us understand what Jesus meant by a "rich and satisfying life" (John 10:10)?
   
   

Ask God to show you specific ways you can continue the journey of developing godly character through such avenues as Bible study, fellowship, accountability, and vulnerability.

Psalm 1

1 Oh, the joys of those who do not
follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand around with sinners,
or join in with mockers.

2 But they delight in the law of the Lord,
meditating on it day and night.

3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
and they prosper in all they do.

4 But not the wicked!
They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.

5 They will be condemned at the time of judgment.
Sinners will have no place among the godly.

6 For the Lord watches over the path of the godly,
but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.

Copyright © 2009 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Lord, protect me from perfectionism and legalism. Help me to lean on you and your grace so that I might become a better man and leader.

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