THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Monday, December 11, 2023

Lord, comparing the benefits of living by your precepts as outlined in verses one and two of Psalm One, versus living for the here-and-now, with no regard of the consequences, reveals two noticeable lifestyles.

Verse three describes those who choose God’s way as “trees planted along a riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do” (Psalm 1:3 NLT).

We’ve seen these positive “Verse 1:3-er” people. They stand out from the herd. Because they have experienced grace, nothing shakes them. The economy may falter, their jobs may downsize, sickness may linger too long, yet they maintain the same positive attitude, since their faith holds to the truths God will do what he promises to do. They may be down from time to time but never defeated. It’s hard to remain depressed around these faithful people.  

On the other hand, we’ve seen the negative “Verse 1:3-er” people. Nothing seems to work out for them. When asked how they are, they usually have a default “woe is me” reply. They won’t be okay. But even if everything they try never works out, or their dreams go south, they insist they are their own person. “I’m in charge of my life and I hold my destiny in my hand. Why do I need God—if he even exists?” they boast. Since their negative attitude saturates the atmosphere around them, people often avoid them.  

Lord, the truths of the Scriptures are evident. How do folks, especially good folks, not see the contrast that by ordering our lives according to your principles, life is better. The peace and contentment of being a positive Verse 1:3-er is unmatched. 

Thank you, Jesus. Amen.