He is like a tree
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
~Psalm 1:3
Reading this Psalm reminded me of something Pastor Brian spoke about a few weeks ago. He said that wherever we are, no matter what season, we need to be planted. A tree that is transplanted must be replanted as soon as possible or it will wither. I found this to be such a helpful picture for any point in life where a change of location, change of lifestyle or a change of leadership position occurs. So many times I've seen people go through major changes in life and step away from community to get their bearings, when it is in community that we can have others help us along the way.
This Psalm also gives us a bit of insight into how we are to remain righteous (morally right or justifiable) - verses 1&2 talk about the progression of the ungodly man:
Blessed: (Hebrew) "Oh, how happy!" is the man
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked: be aware of who is in your inner circle of friends giving you advice.
nor stands in the way of sinners: doing what everyone else is doing just because everyone else is doing it doesn't make it okay.
nor sits in the seat of scoffers: a scoffer or mocker is also known as one who insults others with words or actions.
To walk indicates following someone or being followed by someone. Jesus' disciples walked with him everywhere He went. - who are you walking with?
To stand is to take sides, to stand with or against. - who are you standing with and what are you standing for?
To sit is to rest and be satisfied with the place you are in. - where are you finding your rest?
Plant yourself in good soil to bear good fruit.