Stability and strength
by Pastor Joshua Pfeiffer
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‘They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper’ (Psalm 1:3).
This year has brought many changes to our lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people have had a sense of instability and flux, not knowing what will come next and how long the situation will last. Often, though, we experience all of life like this. We don’t feel as if we are grounded on a sure and solid footing, but rather, as if we are vulnerable and easily blown back and forth by the circumstances of life.
Psalm 1 pictures something like this and the alternative the Lord brings about. On the one hand are the wicked, who are like chaff that the wind drives away. There is nothing substantial enough in them and their path of life to give security when the winds of this world blow. On the other hand are the righteous, who are like trees planted by streams of water. They have deep roots, and a source outside of themselves continually gives nourishment. They are not only healthy and strong, but they yield fruit for the blessing of others too.
But notice carefully that the contrast between the wicked and the righteous. It is not to do with our behaviour, but the object of our listening and meditation. We are called not to follow the advice and listen to the scoffing of those who do not acknowledge God. Instead, we are to meditate on the law of the Lord – his word – day and night. God’s word is the life-giving underground stream of spiritual irrigation, which energises our lives and gives us the strength and security we need.
The Lord watches over your way in life, and he knows the path you’re on, even when it feels insecure and in flux. Your Lord Jesus has gone ahead of you, even through death. He has opened the way to true blessedness and happiness in life with God. Meditate on his word day and night, and discover the deep roots of security in him that aren’t threatened by the winds of this world.
Heavenly Father, thank you that you watch over our way and that your life-giving word irrigates our life. Please help us to listen to you by meditating on your word and make us a blessing to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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