A Picture of Righteousness – Psalm 1
The book of Psalms uses nature-based imagery extensively. One can visualize in the mind’s eye a “tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit” (v. 3). What a picture of righteousness not soon to be forgotten! However, there is a contrast between those that are ungodly and those that keep the law of God. This is another technique, if you would, the Psalmist uses through the books.
Type of Sinners
David knows he is not perfect and is quick to throw himself at the mercy of his Redeemer. He recognizes there is a difference between a sinner that appreciates and yearns for the mercies of God and the sinner that willfully wallows in his wickedness without a need for God. The latter is whom David refers to as the ungodly. There is an expected end for both categories of sinners when faced in the judgment. “For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous; but the way of the ungodly shall perish” (v. 6).
Again, verse four portrays in pictorial form the ungodly as chaff or light husks separated during the winnowing of wheat in ancient times. When tossed into the air, the component of the wheat, which has substance or some element of weight to it, falls to the ground. Whereas the chaff, husk or refuse, blows away with the wind.
Christ alludes to this concept in the parable of the Sower in Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8. One subgroup of seed does not lay down a firm foundation on the Word of God or the law, as referred to in Psalm 1. The birds easily snatch them up. They are lacking in substance or weight, are worthless, and won’t stand in the judgment. Those that take root in good soil show a picture of righteousness.
This is simply chapter one! There is so much more awaiting the reader who delves deep into such a theme-woven masterpiece. God, of course, is the author, but uses the experiences and expression of the psalmists to quicken both our interests and our intellects in the things that matter most.
Chapter 1 introduces early in its segment the concept of meditation on the Word (The Book of Psalms). It sets the stage for a deeper dive into the Christian walk, explicitly described as founded on God’s Word.
How readest thou?
Prayer
Dear Father, thank You for Your Word. Root and ground in it our lives, so we will show forth pictures of righteousness for Your name’s honor and glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.
