For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly shall perish. Psalm 1:6
The first psalm deals with how we can be blessed. It separates the world into two categories: the righteous and the wicked. The difference between the two is in where they are planted. Today’s verse contrasts two ways: the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. The wicked are described as those who do not depend on God, who rebel against God, and who mock God. Their way leads nowhere and finally plant themselves in pride. They believe this way of life will make them thrive, but it only leads them to wither and die. But the righteous are pictured as a healthy, fruit-bearing tree because they are planted by a stream of water. They are not chasing what they think will make their lives thrive. Instead, they are resting on what God says will make them thrive in God’s law.
We need to be beside the stream to be blessed, to always have healthy leaves and bring fruit in the right season and the stream is none other than Lord Jesus Christ (John 7:37). We plant ourselves in Jesus by resting, trusting and believing in Who Jesus is and His Word. David states that God’s way to happiness is being separated from the world, saturated with the Word, and successful in doing God’s will.