Scripture:
Psalm 1: 1-3
Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
2
but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
3
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.
Observation:
At the risk of sounding like a “prosperity gospel” promoter – this whole chapter is yet another beautiful portrait of the benefits, rewards, profit, reasons, payoffs, prizes, etc. – blessings, for those of us who choose to serve Jesus. Who delights in the law of the Lord.
Living for Jesus in a loving relationship – serving Him as a Father, as Master, like a child who is deeply in love with a parent – is, simply put, the cat’s meow!
On the flip side – when I live for you Jesus for any other reason it is like doing something for my earthly Father because I’m hoping for extra allowance or trying to avoid trouble. Our relationship will still be there–and Jesus, like all wonderful Fathers I know you still loves me – but this is not serving You, it’s more for my own selfish gain which is the opposite of serving You!
The same applies when I serve others – Do I serve them because I love You, Lord, and others, or is there an ulterior motive?
Application:
I will continue to delight in you, Jesus. Love You, learn about You, and through You produce fruit like a tree planted by waters. I will share the love of You with others. I will prosper. You, Jesus will prosper. Others will prosper. Cat’s meow!
Lord, will I sometimes serve You with ulterior motives? Yes. Knowing? Yes. Unknowing? Yes. And I know you still love me immensely, Lord!
Prayer:
Lord, I know your love is stronger than my intentions. Thank you so much for your mercy and grace. And thank you for constantly assuring, promoting, reminding, and encouraging me about how much joy, and a blessing it is to serve you in life! It’s my honor. I love you, Lord. In Jesus name, amen.