Central CC of Fresno

Psalm 1: God's Word or the world, which will you choose?

Psalm 1: 1-6

Overview:

·         Serves as an introduction to the book of Psalms

·         Lays the foundation for the type of worshiper God expects and accepts

·         Clearly communicates the theme that runs throughout the book of Psalms, which is there are only two paths available to man, (1) the way of the blessed and (2) the way of the wicked, the first leads to eternal salvation, the second leads to eternal destruction.

Verse 1:1

·         The blessed man does not believe the principals that guide the life of the wicked, behave according to the patterns of the wicked, or belong to the wicked. See 1st Corinthians chapters 1, 6 & 10 as an example of men who believe, behave and finally belong to the world.

Verse 1:2

·         The key to finding and staying on the right path is reading, studying and applying the Word of God. Paul reveals the power and value of scripture when he wrote the following in 2nd Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." NASB

Verse 1:3

·         Those that choose to read, study and apply the Word of God will experience spiritual growth, which will develop within them stability and perseverance. In addition, they will bear fruit, which is to produce the things of God with our lives that provide clear and undeniable evidence of Gods work in our lives. Lastly, they will prosper, this prosperity is conditional, and it does not refer to financial wealth, but rather to prosperity in the  things of God. See Joshua 1:7-8

Verses1:4-6

·         Unlike the blessed man the wicked do not prosper, but like useless chaff they are separated and destroyed.

·         God knows the way of the righteous, He is the reason for our blessing, it is not earned, but through His Mercy and Grace he has made the way of salvation available to us.

Key Point: God's Word is essential to finding and remaining on the right path. It provides direction for the lost, hope for the hopeless and strength for the weak. It is the key to living the blessed life.