Where it all begins

As in most introductions, Psalm 1 is a general guide to the entire Psalter. It dwells on the topic of God’s benevolence and care for His people, even as it reinforces the truth that the wicked shall ultimately perish. It is a short prayer, consisting of 6 verses, but the sequencing of these exhibits great artistry.

The first verse extols the upright man, the one who avoids evil practices, who has no contact with sinners, and who does not attach value to pride and pomp. Such a man, the Psalmist says, takes delight in the Word of the Lord, meditating on it incessantly. The key word in verse 1 is “not”, for it immediately juxtaposes the vainglory of human endeavour with the simple joy of walking in His presence.

The “rejection/acceptance theme is once again reversed, for His followers (and keepers of the law) are compared to a sturdy, deep-rooted tree planted by constantly-flowing waters. Such a tree will be fruitful and long-lasting, as with the good-hearted man. Not so the sinner, for he will be scattered like chaff in the wind. The evildoer cannot take his place alongside the righteous; he cannot even hope for a merciful judgment.

While verses 2 and 3 symbolise the final outcome for the man of God, verses 4 and 5 forsee the destruction and desolation of the man filled with worldly desires.

And, finally, in verse 6, comes the ultimate verdict: God knows His own, and will never abandon the righteous. As for the unrepentant sinner, he rushes headlong to his doom.

You are blessed when you choose the upright way;

And lost forever, when you go astray.

Choose therefore, the true Word that leads to life,

All else will bring you hopelessness and strife.

Be rather, then, a sturdy, full-grown tree

Watered, and bearing fruit, plentifully.

Not like the chaff, scourged by the blust’ry breeze,

Not like the wicked, brought down to their knees.

God knows it all, His people sure He’ll save,

To savour life anew, beyond the grave.

Give thanks and praise to Him who sits on high,

For His mercy’ll save us, by and by.

Amen.