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Although I have shared many rafting stories when I lived in Oregon, many of my memories cannot be adequately explained in writing, in person, or even through video or photos. One of the exciting parts of the summer was floating many miles on different rivers, allowing us to see a wide variety of landscapes, homes, animals, and mountains. Regardless of the river, there always seemed to be one sight that was constant – the delightful rope swings attached to trees along the river. Sometimes, they looked so well made that I was tempted to give them a try myself. Other times, the swings looked like they were just strong enough to hold a small child. Regardless, it was clear that these trees along the side of the rivers were big, strong, and steady. 

Psalm 1 gives us a challenge and meditation if we want our lives to look like a strong and steady tree. In the opening verse, it describes this life as blessed. Some translations start this way, “Happy is the one….” Do you want happiness? Do you want to be blessed by God? Consider these two simple challenges. First, who do you surround yourself with? The wicked, the sinners, and the mockers? Who are the people you look up to, seek wise counsel from, and want to spend time with? Life change happens in relationship, and according to Psalm 1, this life change can lead to blessedness, or it can steal happiness from you if you are surrounded by the wrong type of people.

What type of people should you surround yourself with, then? I think verse 2 answers that question. Find others who delight in God’s Word and meditate on it each and every day.  These people will be like a strong and steady tree, growing fruit in season without leaves that wither. 

Final Thought: Write or print Psalm 1, put it in a place you will see each day, and challenge yourself to memorize it over the coming month. Then, watch as God helps you to delight in His Word.

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