Saturday Scripture Gold: Psalms 1:1-3

Happy Saturday!

Thank you for joining me today. Each week, I will take a verse (or passage) from the Bible and dig beneath the surface to uncover the precious golden nuggets of truth, wisdom, and knowledge that lie waiting to be discovered. I pray that this will inspire you to do some "digging" of your own into God's scripture!

This week's Bible passage: Psalms 1:1-3

So, what is the key to true happiness? We all live in a time where boredom, depression and other forms of unhappiness are widespread. Is there some basic principle somewhere that determines success in finding happiness?

The Book of Psalms with its very first psalm shares with us a key principle that can provide true happiness. Notice the very first word of the first psalm "Blessed." The word in Hebrew implies the idea of "happiness" The actual impact of the Hebrew could be translated "O how very happy is the man..."

Consequently, this psalm describes "The Truly Happy Man" This Saturday, we will: take a closer look at Psalms 1:1-3 and seek to obtain the principles necessary for one to truly be happy.

To try to make this a little easier to understand, let’s separate Psalms 1:1-3 into three sections, beginning with the blessedness of the righteous man. In the first verse, we are told about his character which is described from a negative point of view (Psalms 1:1).

We ought to appreciate the value of negative commands because they keep us from going astray; and can protect us from harm and misery. That is why it is says that the truly happy man: "Walks not in the counsel of the ungodly"; "Nor stands in the path of sinners"; "Nor sits in the seat of the scornful."

If you look carefully, this verse (Psalm 1:1) may be taken to describe the path one takes into sin. First, one goes along with a crowd; then takes a stand with the crowd; and finally, reaching the point where sinning is not enough, mockery or jeering is added. Next, let’s take a look at the righteous man’s character from a positive perspective. Psalms 1:2 tells us that the source of his joy and happiness is the Word of God, and that it truly is his delight (see also: Psalms 119:16, 24, 35, 47, 70, 77,92, 174; Jeremiah 15:16-17)!

Correspondingly, "in His law he meditates day and night.” (verse 2) isn’t implying he lives a monk-like existence, but a planned interest that goes beyond a casual acquaintance. Simply put, this is something he does habitually; setting aside portions of each day and night for this purpose.

Finally, in Psalms 1:3 we are told what makes him prosperous. He is righteous and deeply rooted in God’s word; and provides blessings to himself and others. Adverse conditions do not affect the fruitfulness of one whose strength comes from God's word.

And although exceptions may occur for reasons which only God knows, a life of devotion will generally be blessed by prosperity and success in life. According to Psalms 1:1-3, such is the character and prosperity of the righteous man. He is truly happy and a blessing to others because he acknowledges the Word of God; and becomes a monument to God's faithfulness and the value of living by His word.

Let's Pray:

Father, You bless those who revere Your name and delight in Your commands. In the midst of inner turmoil or outer conflict I will not be shaken for my heart remains steadfast trusting in You and Your overall plan for my life. I want to remain firmly grounded as I overcome the daily obstacles common to all who live on earth. Help me to learn the valuable lessons along the way as I press on toward the goal for which You have called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Until next week...

God bless you,

Rochelle