Not a One and DoneSample

Who or what influences you the most? For some it’s people; for others it’s popularity. Most of us don’t want to be challenged or have someone push us toward change. Instead, we want friends, likes, follows, and positive reinforcement.

But we all need guidance, and where we get it matters. If we’re not careful, our lives can be guided by people who slow us down. Notice the pattern in the first verse of Psalm 1: walking, standing, sitting. Those who are wicked, living in rebellion to God and mocking him and his ways, will stop you in your tracks. Their influence and direction will leave you stuck.

The happy and joyful person chooses to be guided by God’s Word. And not just in a light-hearted, passing way. They’re thinking deeply about God’s instructions and meditating on them constantly. God’s Word is our spiritual food - and this person isn’t just snacking lightly on it. Rather, they’re choosing to feast on the Scriptures.

The result of feasting on the Bible is deep roots and spiritual fruit! Verse 3 says that a person who is deeply rooted in God will be anchored like a tree with a great water source. Healthy. Strong. And bearing good fruit. Fruit like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

When it comes to reading the Bible we’re meant to consume it - for health, strength, and help. If we let it, and follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance, the Bible and the Spirit will produce good fruit in us and show us who we are and why we exist. It’s something to feast upon but also something to meditate on. We should slowly and thoughtfully consider the stories, songs, and commands.

Let the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit be your greatest teachers. Get your guidance from God and let him teach you his wisdom and his ways!

Consider: Try to pray through the Psalm. As you read the passage, consider what you may need to ask God for. Verse 1 may call you to ask God to remove unhealthy friendships from your life. You might ask God for deeper roots in his truth and love after considering verse 3. Pray as you read and discover what the Holy Spirit might do!

Reflect: What does it mean to be a well-watered garden and how does that affect the fruit that comes from your life? Take a minute and journal your thoughts.