What do our children or grandchildren see when they watch us? Do they see people who are discerning regarding the company we keep? Are they observing parents who honor God with all their choices, words and thoughts? 

Psalm 1 presents two contrasting scenarios. Look up the psalm and read all six verses. Which scenario reflects the choices that shape your life?

As you read Psalm 1, notice how the first half speaks of blessings, delights, and satisfying fruit we experience when we choose to be nourished by God’s Word. Our lives produce good outcomes and reflect mature decisions.

But notice the sharp contrast in the last half of the psalm, which describes those who live in disobedience to God’s Word: 

The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish” (Psalm 1:4-6 ESV).

The Amplified Bible, Classic Edition ends verse six with “but the way of the ungodly [those living outside God’s will] shall perish (end in ruin and come to nought).” Are these words convincing enough to persuade you to make some changes?

For sure, the last half of Psalm 1 is not as fun as the first half to read or even think about. But its warnings are important, nevertheless. Since our heavenly Father is loving, good and merciful, we can only begin to imagine how profoundly He longs for us to choose the correct path. 

But the choice is ours.

How would it change us – and our day – if we consistently honored God with our choices, words and thoughts? Would it help (and change everything we did) if we remembered how much God loves us? That He is walking with us?

Do you want the rewards that come when you seek God and His wisdom? Or do you prefer the consequences when you rebel against God and His ways? We can have purpose, direction and meaning. Or we can live recklessly – and suffer disappointment and regret.

What about you? 

You can use a pseudonym (fake name) when commenting.

• Which scenario do you want for yourself? 
• Which scenario do you want for your children? They are learning from your example.

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