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Psalm 1 uses poetic language to contrast the life of the godless with the life of the godly. Those with a passion for God and his Word (v. 2) are like sturdy, fruit-producing trees (v. 3), says the psalmist, while the wicked "are like worthless chaff, scattered in the wind" (v. 4). Much loved and widely quoted, this psalm is more than good poetry. Along with pointing out the consequences of wickedness, it offers comfort, encouragement, and guidance for all who seek to live by God's winning game plan.

Key Study Passage:

Psalm 1

1. In what ways do people "follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners" (v. 1)?
2. What does it mean to "delight" (v. 2) in God's Word? How does this differ from simply reading or even studying the Bible?
3. What promises are made in verse 3? (See also Jer. 17:7-8.) How are the promises in this verse true for believers who face difficulties and even persecution?
4. According to verses 4-6, what are the consequences of wickedness? Does this mean that there is no hope for the wicked? (For insights into God's desire for the wicked, read the book of Jonah.)
5. How do you believe God "watches over the path of the godly" (v. 6)? How do you see God watch over your own life?

Spend Time in Prayer: Read and reflect on Psalm 1, pausing after each verse to say a prayer of praise, thanksgiving, or confession; close by praying for two or three people you know who need salvation or need to rededicate their lives to Christ and to godly living.

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 © 2013 by Christianity Today/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Father in heaven, forgive me for those times I don’t trust you and your perfect plan for my life; through this week’s readings show me one step I need to take to strengthen my walk with you.

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