Like a tree by the water
Today's focusThe blessed person delights in God's law and meditates on it day and night, becoming like a tree planted by rivers of water that bears fruit in season.
Read
1Blessed 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. 2But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3And 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. 4The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. 5Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 6For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Reflection
The opening of the Psalms invites you to consider where you find your direction and strength. It describes a "blessed" person who chooses a distinct path, turning away from the "counsel of the ungodly" to find a different source of life. Rather than being shaped by those who mock or wander, this person finds their joy and focus elsewhere. Their "delight is in the law of the LORD," and they choose to "meditate day and night" on His words, letting them sink deep into the heart.
When you abide in God’s Word this way, the passage promises you will be "like a tree planted by the rivers of water." This is a beautiful image of stability and nourishment. Even when the world feels dry or shifting, a tree by the river has a constant supply of life. You are promised that you will bring "forth his fruit in his season" and your "leaf also shall not wither." By staying rooted in His truth, you receive the endurance to stand firm and the promise that "the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous."
AI-written reflection on the passage above. Let Scripture itself be the main thing.
Reflect
What would it look like for you to 'meditate' on Scripture — chewing on a verse slowly — rather than just reading it quickly?
Pray
Lord, plant me like a tree by streams of water. Give me delight in your Word, so that I meditate on it day and night. Let my life bear fruit in its season.