The Choice We Make

Psalm 1 (NLT)

1 Oh, the joys of those who do not
    follow the advice of the wicked,
    or stand around with sinners,
    or join in with mockers.
2 But they delight in the law of the LORD,
    meditating on it day and night.
3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
    bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
    and they prosper in all they do.
4 But not the wicked!
    They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.
5 They will be condemned at the time of judgment.
    Sinners will have no place among the godly.
6 For the LORD watches over the path of the godly,
    but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.

Reflection

We have two choices in life: to live a life following God or to live a life in opposition to Him. When we, as Christians, make the decision to follow Christ, it is more than a one-time choice. It is a lifetime of continuously making decisions, decisions that either lead us closer to God or further away from Him. Choices like whether we’re going to engage in workplace gossip or walk away from those conversations. Choices like whether we’re going to go out of our way to help a friend or ignore the situation.

As followers of Christ, we are called to live a life of making (oftentimes difficult) decisions. We are called to meditate on the laws of God and let these truths guide our thoughts, words, and actions. Doing this demonstrates the love of Christ to the people around us. It produces fruit in our lives that creates a difference in the lives of others.

And there is blessing for those who choose to follow God’s ways. Verses 3 and 4 remind us that those who joyfully study and follow God’s law “are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.”


Today, let’s be more aware of the choices we are making. Let’s grow closer to God by choosing His ways.


Action Steps

1.Are you faced with a difficult decision today? What choice would show your devotion to God? What choice might oppose Him?

2.What path are you currently taking? Are you striving to “delight in the law of the Lord” (verse 2), or are you “stand[ing] around with sinners, or join[ing] in with mockers” (verse 1)? Take a few minutes to evaluate how you’re living and invite God to help you choose His ways.


Prayer

God, be with me. Help me. Direct me. Lead me in Your ways so that I can follow You in all I do. I want to be an example of Your love to all I meet. In Your name I pray. Amen.