A TALE OF TWO MEN

Psalm 1
The opening of the book of the Psalms shows two different kinds of people who take two
different ways and who come to two different ends. The first psalm is not only a microcosm of
the Psalms, but of life as well.
THE RIGHTEOUS MAN ( VV. 1–2).
The wise man who pleases God is not simply intelligent or successful. He is the man whose life
demonstrates a knowledge of and obedience to God’s Word (v. 2). Because of his love for God’s
Word, he hates and avoids evil and the corrupting influence of wicked men (v. 1). The blessed
man is not just a religious man; he is characterized by obedience to God’s revealed Word.
G OD’S RESPONSE TO THIS MAN (V . 3).
The righteous man loves and obeys God’s Word, and God blesses him with an unending
fruitfulness (v. 3). This kind of living does not go out of style; it constantly pleases God. This is
true success in God’s eyes.
THE WICKED MAN (VV. 4–5).
In stark contrast to the righteous man is the one who does give heed to the thinking and advice
of other wicked men. He fills his mind and heart with “But I think this is right. . .” and
“Everybody says this is so.” No matter the amount of money in his bank account or the titles
before his name, God’s assessment of this man is “Failure.” His life will not enjoy any
permanence, and his work will be as longstanding as the windblown chaff (v. 4).
Furthermore, he will have no leg to stand on before God (v. 5). His earthly “successes” have no
merit before God. Rather, he will be judged because of his failure to obey God’s Word and
comply with God’s righteousness.
G OD’S RESPONSE TO THESE TWO MEN ( V. 6).
Despite how things look at this moment in time, the Lord looks with gracious favor on the
righteous life, while ungodly living will soon come to nothing (v. 6).