Vital signs- Saturday, October 29th, 2022

“Blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked [following their advice and example], Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit [down to rest] in the seat of scoffers (ridiculers). But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night. And he will be like a tree firmly planted [and fed] by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season; Its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers [and comes to maturity]. The wicked [those who live in disobedience to God’s law] are not so, But they are like the chaff [worthless and without substance] which the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand [unpunished] in the judgment, Nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord knows and fully approves the way of the righteous, But the way of the wicked shall perish.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Wisdom Psalms resemble the book of Proverbs in the way they encourage people to live wisely. Wisdom Psalms contrast the lifestyle choices seen in both those who reject God and those who choose to embrace his Lordship in their life. They tend to incorporate practical applications that we can apply in our daily lives. 

Who's voice and perspective are fueling our thoughts and decisions?

Who and what we allow to fuel our thought and decisions will significantly affect our lives.

Going the easy/popular way may seem to gain us friends and make us popular with some, but it dries out our hearts. When troubles come, our supposed "friends" scatter. A life built on making fun of, or putting others down, can't stand up to scrutiny and has no substance. 

God himself will be our strength and righteousness if we trust in him. He will be the one who justifies us, refreshes, restores, and sustains us. His voice is the only one that matters. When we eagerly anticipate hearing His voice and take time to meditate, saturating our hearts and minds with what He has said to us through His word, something incredible happens. Life, joy, and fruitfulness begin to flow from within us no matter what circumstances are around us. Even when the world is experiencing lack, we will have more than enough because of God's life flowing within us.  

How often have you "gone along with the crowd" to be popular or not be picked on? Ask God if you have used criticism or mocking as a defensive tool. Have you been trying to cover up your fear instead of bringing it to God, asking for His perspective and healing? 

Repent and receive His forgiveness.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

I am sorry for giving place to the fear of man and "wickedness" in my life. I ask you to forgive me, wash me clean, and give me your perspective. I believe and receive your incredible truth that I will be like a tree that continually drinks from your Spirit. Thank you. I never have to be afraid, your life gives me life. Teach me to meditate on your word and your promises and to take the time to delight myself in you.

In Jesus's name, amen.