Psalms 1:2-3
But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.
Have you ever wondered why God’s powerful Word does not seem to work for some Christians? Perhaps you have personally asked yourself that very question. So you’ve lost your full trust in the Scriptures. Perhaps you’re tempted to think they work for certain “special” people. Or you may have retained a quiet respect for the Word but no more.
Yet today’s passage boldly teaches the connection between the Scriptures and the believer’s success. It avers that living by the Word makes the believer continually fruitful, fresh and prosperous. But why is it that some believers don’t seem to enjoy the benefits of God’s Word?
Firstly, God’s Word works for those who DELIGHT in it. That means we must love and enjoy the Word of God, rather than just tolerating it like bitter medicine. Tell me dear friend, do you truly delight in the Word? Do you endure or enjoy the reading, teaching and preaching of the Word? The body language some Christians show during ministration of the Word betrays an enduring rather than an enjoying attitude. How about you? Are you fascinated by the Word of God? I pray that you’ll be increasingly thrilled by the wisdom of God. I pray that you’ll relish the Word like a delicious meal.
Secondly, the Word of God works for those who MEDITATE on it day and night. It’s not good enough to reflect on God’s Word once in a while. An occasional focus on Scripture does not produce results. If there’s a Promise you’re standing on, hold on to it consistently. Think about it during the day, before you sleep and when you happen to wake up during the night.
Immerse yourself in the Word of God. Read it. Hear it. Study it. Write it down. Reflect on it. Research what the Bible says about your issues. Pattern your life around it. Use it to interpret your reality. Let it shape your worldview. Believe it. Obey it. Then watch your life flourish like a palm tree and grow like a cedar of Lebanon!
Pastor Josh