Meditate.
Blessed is the person 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 on His Law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree 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. The wicked are not so, but they are like chaff which the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the wicked will perish. Psalm 1:1-6 NASB20
 |
| Kayaking with family on the Columbia. |
I memorized this scripture passage when I was in Junior High along with several others kids at my church as we went through a confirmation class. We also memorized the Ten Commandments, the Lord’s Prayer and other selected verses the Pastor chose. Somehow this passage has stuck with me over the years…and I’ve considered it a mainstay to my life even guiding me in choice of friends—or providing a nudge in the right direction if I made a wrong choice. Don’t seek out those or get advice from someone who does evil stuff, don’t walk alongside of someone who willfully sins, or sit around and gossip with the nay-sayers. Wrong things to do—but imperceptibly challenging to high school and college age groups. Been there done that. Knowing that the wicked will perish is motivating. Choose your friends and activities wisely.
Each of us is responsible for our own decisions. God will one day hold us accountable. I guess that is why the Holy Spirit inspired the Psalmist to write that the wicked won’t stand in the judgment. I assume they will be on their knees—begging for mercy. I’d rather be standing before God…knowing that Jesus has my back and that my sins are forgiven. That only happens because of the obedience of Jesus on the cross—dying for my sin…and yours. What a way to start a relationship with Jesus…knowing that He gave all He had…His very life…for me. Are you trusting Him with your life? Will you be standing in judgment…or on your knees begging for mercy when it is too late? Make sure you choose wisely. Time may be getting short before Jesus calls His believers to come be with Him in Heaven.
Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Thank You once again…and always…for Your obedience to our Heavenly Father. Instill in me that same obedience that I would be willing to live for You…and die for You. Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. Flow like rivers of water—refreshing my soul.
Verses of Salvation ~ In that
day you will sing: "I will praise you, O LORD! You were angry with me, but
not any more. Now you comfort me. See, God has come to save me. I will trust in
him and not be afraid. The LORD GOD is my strength and my song; he has given me
victory." With joy you will drink deeply from the fountain of salvation!
In that wonderful day you will sing: "Thank the LORD! Praise his name!
Tell the nations what he has done. Let them know how mighty he is! Sing to the
LORD, for he has done wonderful things. Make known his praise around the world.
Let all the people of Jerusalem shout his praise with joy! For great is the
Holy One of Israel who lives among you." Isaiah 12:1-6
Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character
Available as an e-book
or paperback at Amazon.com
New month...time to start a new habit of reading a daily devotional...today.
No comments:
Post a Comment