JANUARY 1
Psalm 1:3, “He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”
Famous for its fishing, the Deschutes River lies not too far to the west of here. From its headwaters in the Cascade Mountains, it flows 250 miles north to its confluence with the Columbia River. Whereas tree-covered mountains encompass its upper reaches; an arid high desert landscape characterizes its lower half. I’ve fished in the lower portion of the river many times. It has a beauty all its own, the blue of the river and green ribbon of bank-side vegetation, set against the backdrop of the barren golden hills which hem the river’s course.
Trees and green vegetation line the riverbank because that’s the only place where they can find sufficient hydration. Long after the sweltering summer heat has vanquished the green and life from the surrounding hills, the trees along the river live on. Year after year. Season after season. Rain or no rain. This is despite their placement in a harsh environment. The one meditating on the word is likened to a tree planted by streams of water, as the Word imparts both necessary sustenance and prosperous fruit-bearing.
A young man spoke to me of the challenges associated with staying on course, in his walk, amidst various distractions and disappointments. Amidst such trials, it is time in the Word that is the determining factor for one’s spiritual health and growth. You’ve gotten off to a good start in this new year in reading through this wonderful psalm. Work to put the Word of God in your heart and God will work to spiritually prosper your life (Colossians 3:16-17).
The word in your heart will work in your life to prosper your walk!
Application questions:There are 168 hours in a week. How much of that do you spend on hearing the Word? Reading it? Memorizing it? Meditating upon it? Determine to set apart a plan, a place, and a time to devote to yourself to the Word and prayer.
LookingtoJesus 