The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Ro 14:17). It is a realm where those who seek the Kingdom recognize and obey the authority of our King—Jesus. The Kingdom is not about a group of perfect saints; rather, the Kingdom is for people who seek to live in a way that pleases God. Christ’s followers are real people who live respectfully among fellow human beings in a sin-filled world. The difference is Kingdom people are keenly aware of the need for God’s mercy and forgiveness; therefore, we choose to speak the Truth in love while pressing on in the transforming grace Christ provides each day. Godliness is the goal.
So, if we look at the Kingdom properly, we will see living for Jesus is a lifestyle of understanding his righteousness and bowing to his authority while listening and obeying the guidance of the Holy Spirit who exalts God’s Word. This is what is really means to be a “believer” who is rooted in Christ. It’s all about growing roots that attach to the Tree of Life!
In our passage today, the psalmist (composer) wants us to note the contrast between the godly and the wicked and sing about the goodness of life with God. Again, the godly are not perfect people; they simply want more of God and to do his will. According to this worship leader, the wicked are not only those who commit heinous crimes; this psalmist refers to anyone who walks away from doing the will of God outlined in his Word as wicked—without roots in God.
If we do not have roots in our Source, we cannot quench our spiritual thirst and stay vibrant. If we do not have STRONG roots in God’s Word, we cannot flourish and bear righteous fruit—the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal 5:22-23). Godly people have STRONG roots and producing fruit is their goal. So, produce godly fruit and share some with others, today, because God is watching!
Psalm 1 NLT
1
Oh, the joys of those who do not
follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand around with sinners,
or join in with mockers.
2
But they delight in the law of the Lord,
meditating on it day and night.
3
They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
and they prosper in all they do.
4
But not the wicked!
They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.
5
They will be condemned at the time of judgment.
Sinners will have no place among the godly.
6
For the Lord watches over the path of the godly,
but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for watching over the path of the godly. Please continue to cause us to prosper in all that we do and all that you seek for us to become. In Jesus’ name. Amen.