Scripture
Psalm 1:1-3 Blessed is the one who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law they meditate day and night. They 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 they do shall prosper.
.
Observation
Notice there is a progression with following worldly people. First, we are warned not to walk in the advice or philosophies of the ungodly because if we do, we will find ourselves standing (no longer moving) with sinners. In the words of Aesop, a person is known by the company they keep. The progression continues as we may find ourselves sitting in judgement of others, instead of following Christ, loving Him, and other people.
.
Application
What separates the godly from the ungodly and keeps us from this downward spiral is the word of God. It will bring life, light, health, and fruitfulness to you. While we are to be in the world, we are not to be of it.
John 17:14 I [Jesus] have given them [disciples] Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.
2 Corinthians 6:17 Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you
We must be followers of Jesus, not followers of the world and the ungodly who are of it. We must become readers, meditators, and lovers of the word so that we may bear fruit that glorifies the Father (John 15:8).
.
Prayer of Repentance
Jesus, I love You. Thank You for today. You are holy. I repent for following the world instead of being a light in the darkness. I repent for treating Your word as common instead of treating it as precious, holy, and life-giving. Help me to read, meditate, and understand Your word. I want to delight in Your word, to bear fruit that blesses others, and to give you glory with my life. Holy Spirit, light up Your word to me, that I may be a light in the darkness. Amen.
.
Worship