Discovering Happiness in Obedience

“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.” (Psalm 1:1, NIV).

The first verse of the first Psalm offers us a beautiful promise, “Blessed” are those who avoid a sinful path. That is good news for hurting people. However, stern implications rest in this poem, too. Those who opt to follow the way of wickedness lose God’s privileged blessing. The psalmist challenges us to consider how we handle personal responsibilities.

When wrestling with trials, temptations, or depression a great temptation lurks, its called compromise. Sadness weakens our resistance, it hinders perseverance, and often serves as an excuse for wrongful behavior. Notice the sinful regression in today's verse: one who chooses to entertain sin first “walks” or considers heeding bad advice, then he/she embraces the company of those who approve evil, the final step, become part of the crowd and take a seat among people opposed to the Lord. Ponder evil advise, mull with evil influences, engage evil company lose the blessings of God. Malevolent thoughts, words, and deeds erect a wall of separation between us and the Lord. When our hearts ache, its easy to justify a harsh word, bitter gesture, or cutting remark. Surround yourself with sinful influences and sinful implications will surround you How many times have you witnessed a bad situation turn worse because the person involved responded to trial in an ungodly manner? Consequently, no matter how bad we feel or have been treated, we can not allow sin to invade our lives.

Today's culture often associates happiness with things received. Scripture holds a different view. The word for “blessed” in this verse literally means, happy. Yes, happiness or blessing awaits those who avoid the pitfalls and implications of sin. Last year, while driving down an interstate several police officers waived over 1/2 dozen speeding motorists. A stiff fine awaited the traffic violators. As we passed the entourage of disgruntled drivers receiving citations, the thought occurred to me, I am glad we were not speeding! Obedience protects us from ramifications of sin, it harbors us from harm, and sets us free from emotional burdens. Often a depressed person thinks in his/her heart, if I can feel good, I will do good. Scripture reverses the order, do good and good feelings will follow. Are you allowing your sadness to justify poor behavior? Take a positive, “blessed” step today by avoiding the path of disobedience.

Today's Prayer: Lord help me to see the blessings of obedience, the implications of sin, and enable me to make better choices each day. Amen.

For further study read: Deuteronomy 28:1-68.

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