Hobart Herd Devotional – Psalms 1- 4-27-20
The tone for the book of Psalms is set much like the book of Proverbs with the blessings on those who love and follow God’s Word and commands and the judgment, struggle and destruction of those who rebel and chose the ways of sin. Chapter 1 of Psalms starts this theme that continues throughout this marvelous book. There is the great contrast between the Blessings of those who delight in God’s Word(vs. 1-3) and the wicked whose way will perish.(vs. 4-6)
I am reminded of the many challenges to read, meditate, memorize and study God’s Word that have been expressed to me over the years. Many of you read God’s Word on a daily basis, some with a very planned and scheduled reading and others with a more relaxed plan. I know that I did not really grow and develop in my spiritual walk with the Lord until I learned to be structured and disciplined in my daily devotional life. Bible School really set me on the path by requiring that we be in our dorm rooms for devotions morning and evening, reading God’s word and praying. While I haven’t always been able to follow such a regimented structure, I know that when I miss my time alone with the Lord and His Word, my life begins to deteriorate.
I find that when I don’t set aside time to read, meditate and study God’s Word, the counsel of the ungodly becomes my direction very quickly. I don’t plan on walking, standing, or sitting with the schemes and plans of this sinful world, but when I am not purposely walking, reading and growing in God’s Word, I naturally default to the sinful and wicked ways and thinking of this world. I become short tempered, resentful, discouraged, depressed and rebellious against God.
Truly I want to be steadfast and growing in my faith like the tree planted by the water. Immediate my mind goes to an old gospel song, “I Shall not Be Moved”. I want my roots sunk deep in the truths of God’s Word, fed by the water of His Spirit so that when the winds and struggles of this world come against me, I am not moved from my walk of faith in the Lord. I want the Lord to bless and prosper me according to His plan as I meditate on His Word and live by it.
Father, Your Word it TRUTH! I know that when I apply myself to the study, meditation, memorization and worship of You through Your Spirit’s direction in the Word of Truth, I am richly blessed and given all that I need to remain steadfast in my walk of faith. Forgive me for straying and walking, standing and sitting in the way of sinners and scoffers. I want my life to count for You, to bring glory and honor to You, to remain true and strong in my faith, to bring eternal reward. Thank You for giving me Your Word and Your Spirit to keep me focused and delighted in You. In Jesus Name, Amen! Pastor Rob