“And he (they) shall be like a tree firmly planted (and tended) by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not face shall not fade or wither: and everything he does shall prosper (and come to maturity)” Psalm 1:3 (AMP)
We were driving across the Mojave Desert. For miles all around us, all we could see was desolation — sand, large rocks, tumbleweed, and a few Joshua trees. To me it was kind of depressing.
A few hours later we arrived at our destination. As soon as we drove into the driveway of the motel, my heart leaped within me. Flowers of all colors were blooming profusely. Rose-colored Bougainvillea’s on trellises were in full bloom.
The above verse in Psalm 1 came to mind. Both landscapes — the desolate and the vibrant growth — were in a desert climate, but what a difference. The verdant growth was carefully tended, watered, pruned, and fertilized. The desolate desert was not.
People are like that. The next day, while on our morning walk, my husband smiled and greeted an older man we passed. In return, this man swore at us — venom streaming out of his mouth. A desolate soul. I prayed for him as we continued on our walk.
What can we do to keep being fruitful and alive? How can we keep our souls from becoming desolate and lean? Psalm 1:1 gives us some advice.
Don’t go to ungodly people for advice.
Don’t hang out with the people who scorn or mock Christians.
Delight and meditate on the Bible all the time.
If your soul feels lean or desolate today, evaluate your life. Are you following Psalm 1:1?
Father God, give us a hunger and thirst for Your word and the company of Your people. Amen.
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