The Flourishing of the Faithful

The Flourishing of the Faithful

He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.

Psalm 1:3

We often labor under the misconception that the ungodly are prospering while the godly languish.  Much of our faulty thinking on this score arises as the result of the ‘publicity’ which goes forth to communicate to us the idea, double inspired by Satan, that it is a waste of time to live the Christian life.  We see the actively and passively godless set forth as those who are “enjoying the good life,” while the Christians appear as proof that “nice people finish last.”  This is a totally unscriptural as well as an intensively short-sighted perspective.

We find that our text for today indicates to us that the godly person succeeds in every way that matters.  With regard to his stability, a condition which is greatly desirable that he is firm in his foundation.  Not ‘carried about with every wind of doctrine’ and no slave to every passing fad of whatever variety, he is ‘like a tree planted by the rivers of water.’  This godly person also ‘bringeth forth his fruit in his season;’ that is, he is consistently productive.  Whether we observe that fruitfulness in the physical, mental, social, or spiritual sphere; yet it is there to some degree in every area of his life.  Again, this is a highly desirable condition for any person to attain.  We find that this godly soul also endures hard times with fortitude, because ‘his leaf also shall not wither.’

Hard times come upon all humanity from time to time.  How can anyone stand up under the strain of some of these adversities?  The godly person can, by the power of the Christ upon Whom he depends.  People want hope and help in hardship.  Christ’s people have the answers for endurance.  In the long term, from the eternal perspective, the godly person flourishes in every way in that ‘whatsoever he doeth shall proper.’  Because of our vital union with Christ, we must ultimately succeed in every area of life by His standard of success.  This is not the world’s estimation, but then, whose opinion is more important?  Let us go forth today with the assurance to do Christ honor.

Our Great and Gracious Master,

enable us today to see things

from Thy perspective.

Where the Bush is Burning

Tomm Tice