As promised, in this blog we are going to start tearing a part this wonderful passage of Scripture. This is one of the most often memorized psalms that teaches us one of the most urgent needs of our lives:
HOW TO BE HAPPY AND BLESSED
The word blessed is used quite a bit here in this passage and yet the best synonym in the English language falls short of beginning to express all that is contained in what it truly means to be blessed. Being blessed means…
Joy
Contentment
Peace
Satisfaction
Fulfillment
Protection
Calmness
Assurance
Provision
Prosperity
Blessed is both an inward and outward state. We enjoy this happiness in our spirits, and also in our relationships with others. It is a joy, peace, and assurance that goes beyond circumstances. A commentator has said, “Even when the righteous do not feel happy, they are still considered ‘blessed’ from God’s perspective.” This blessing is a gift from God. It is the result of His approval, acceptance, and favor on our obedient lives. This gift, however, is conditionally received. While God’s favor is always undeserved due to our sinfulness, this blessing is the result of some action on our part. Throughout the Psalms we are said to be blessed because we…
Do not associate with the ungodly (1:1)
Trust in the Lord (2:12; 34:8; 40:4; 84:12)
Confess and receive Gods forgiveness for sin (32:1-2)
Live in a nation that worships the Lord (33:12)
Are the descendants of the righteous (37:26)
Are generous to the poor (41:1-2)
Dwell in God’s house (65:4; 84:4)
Find our strength in the Lord (84:5)
Are chastened by the Lord (94:12)
Maintain justice and live righteously (106:3)
Fear the Lord (112:1; 128:1,4)
Are undefiled and keep God’s law (119:1-2)
Next time we’ll talk more about God’s blessing as we think about the counsel that we walk in. For now, think about who you get counsel from, do you go to the Word first, or do you go to someone or something else first? Which is the better choice? Which will give you the blessing? Until then, I love you and pray for you constantly
Pastor Rob
