Read: Psalm 1
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season.” Psalm 1:1-3
There are people that love doing yard work, there are people that just tolerate doing yard work, and then, there is me— a person who actively procrastinates doing yard work. Don’t get me wrong. I love the idea of doing it but dislike the process. It’s hot. It’s humid. It’s buggy. I just wish there was a way to bring an air-condition-blowing backpack with me as I push the mower around the yard. Get on that, Elon Musk.
This wasn’t that big of a problem back in early spring. We went for weeks without any substantial rainfall, so my yard turned yellowish brown. Nothing was growing. That all changed towards the beginning of summer. We got slammed by Noah-level rain fordays. Now, my yard looks like a jungle, and I need a machete to get to my mailbox.
What changed? Water.
Psalm 1 was written in an ancient setting that didn’t see a lot of rain. Thus, people would plant fruit trees near streams or canals. This ensured the roots would be nourished and that the plants would produce fruit. The audience understood that you could find an oasis in the desert if you just looked for the water source.
David is saying that “blessed is the man who meditates on God’s word day and night.” This word “blessed” is plural. It’s an abundance of blessings— true fulfillment. You will be fulfilled if you’re planted in the right place. Where are you planted? Are you planted in the middle of a desert or are you planted by a stream? If you want to see a difference, you need to be planted in God’s purpose. If you want to see breakthrough, you need to be planted in God’s word. If you want to experience fulfillment in life, you need to be planted in God’s will. Plant yourself in God’s Word daily. That’s where you’ll find nourishment for your soul.