He
is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.1
Throughout
the Bible we find God comparing our walk with Him to His creationâ€"trees,
plants, flowers, seeds and soil, vines and branches, birds in the sky, the
animals of the fields, and even the universe itself. God knew that because, we
too, are a part of His creation we’d be able to relate to all things in nature.
In
Psalm 1, the godly man is compared to a tree, planted near water, fruitful and
prosperous. The verses in this Psalm go back and forth between how a godly man
should live versus how the wicked, or ungodly, carries him or herself. We can
see that this blessed man meditates on the laws of God day and night. If we want
to become a strong tree rooted in our faith, we are guided to dwell on the
Word of the Lord, to reflect on it, all day long.
Beginning our day with the
Lord, in intentional quiet time, is a great way to come across a verse or two
that we can take with us throughout the day and verses that we can meditate or
reflect upon as we go about our busyness. In verse 3 it says that this tree is
planted by streams of water. A tree that has strong, deep roots has grown being
watered by a constant source. God is that constant source for us. Jesus is the
Living Water! All we have to do is seek to be near Him, constantly, and then
enjoy the blessed life that comes when we are deeply rooted in Him!
Suggested
Prayer: Dear Lord, I long to spend time in your presence. Please help me
minimize any distractions that are keeping me from you. I want to delight in
your Word and be constantly watered by your Spirit. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen
1. Psalm 1:3 (ESV).
The
Encounter for today was written by: Veronica B.