In Psalm 1:1-3 we read,
How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers!
Ever since I first read this passage of scripture, I’ve wanted to be a figurative tree like that spoken of by the psalmist in this passage. One doesn’t even have to ask why, because the answer is pretty obvious. Who doesn’t want to be “blessed?” Who wouldn’t want to be continually yielding fruit, not withering, and prospering in whatever one does?
The word “blessed” (Hebrew – asar) – a noun, as used in this biblical text, occurs 44 times in the Old Testament, all but 4 of which appear in poetic style passages (Psalms and Proverbs). Basically, this word connotes a state of “prosperity” or “happiness” that actually comes when a superior bestows favor (blessings) upon a person or a group of individuals. In most cases, the one bestowing favor is actually God Himself!
Nonetheless, the condition of blessing may not always include happiness, nor does it imply the modern day, societal terminology of prosperity, which usually is associated with wealth or fame. Therefore, the reality of this word stresses the idea of God’s presence, protection, activity, etc. in one’s life. In other words, owning a sweet, loveable pet, without material riches could obtain to the state of being “blessed!”
As a believer, the simple position of knowing / having Jesus Christ in one’s own life is “blessed,” with or without monetary prosperity or even comfortable living conditions!
Does our Lord bless His people? Absolutely! However, that may not even be fully recognized until one’s eyes get off of self and focused on things from above that have much greater value than gold or silver. If you’re loved, you’re blessed, if you have quality, Christ-centered relationships, you’re blessed, if you have a Bible that you can read, you’re blessed, if you can worship, you’re blessed, if you have a church that teaches the Truth, you’re blessed, etc., etc., etc.!
Now, what I find truly intriguing about being “blessed” from Psalm 1:1-3 is there is a very specific formula presented to it’s readers. Please note:
- Don’t walk in the counsel (purposes or plans) of the wicked
- Don’t stand (place yourself, hang out with, remain) in the path of sinners (those intentionally rebelling against God)
- Don’t sit (stay or relax, let one’s guard down) in the seat of scoffers (mockers)
- Find delight (take pleasure) in the things of the Lord
- Meditate (ponder and study) on those things
“BLESSED” awaits the individuals that will take to heart our Lord’s direction and guidance!
Don’t just think about it … let’s do it!
Pastor Frank
