Scripture: “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” – (1:1)
Observation: “Go with the flow” refers to following the majority because it’s easier to follow than to fight against the nor. This is even more critical to heed when the majority stands for things that are ungodly! The Psalmist cautions that doing so is not the wise choice for one’s life, and it will most certainly not reap the blessings of God.
Application: It is never easy to be the “odd man out”. In fact, it never has been. Taking a stand for one’s beliefs can lead to alienation, loss of relationships, even acts of violence. It is very difficult to “agree to disagree”, but just because it is challenging to stand up for one’s beliefs doesn’t mean one must compromise. In fact, the Bible specifically instructs us to stand firm in what we know to be right and good in the sight of God regardless of how many stand with us. Titus 2:12 states, “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;” and Colossians 3:23 reminds us to whom we should seek to please in our appearance, words, and actions. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;”.
As Christians, we need to be very mindful of the counsel of God. Psalm 33:11 states, “The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.” His ways and thoughts are higher than ours could ever hope to be (Isaiah 55:9), and all wisdom and knowledge comes from God (Proverbs 2:6). If we desire wise counsel, there is no one who is the Lord’s equal.
Once we receive God’s counsel and choose to live accordingly, we will be blessed. Psalm 128:1-2 tells us how God responds to those who follow His ways. “Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.”
Let us choose to walk in His paths of righteousness no matter what society dictates. This will lead to true joy and contentment in our lives!
Prayer: Dearest Lord Jesus, how wonderful to be able to have the counsel of the One who created all things and knows all things! Teach me, O God, to understand Your Word and apply it to my life. Help me to remember that it is You who are wisdom and truth, and my trust is to be placed solely in You. In Your precious name, I pray. Amen.
Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah, pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but Thou art mighty; hold me with Thy powerful hand.
Bread of heaven, feed me now and evermore;
Bread of heaven, feed me now and evermore.
(from “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” by William Williams)
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“And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” – Psalm 1:3
Following the Lord, though not easy, has out-of-this world amazing benefits.
Indeed it does!! 🥰