Daily devotional · January 11
Rooted Like a Tree
“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does.”
The book of Psalms opens with a picture rather than a command. A person who delights in the teaching of the Lord and thinks on it day and night is like a tree planted by streams of water, bearing fruit in its season. Two details matter. The tree is planted, not accidentally growing, so its location is chosen. And its fruit comes in season, which means growth is not instant. Roots go down long before anything shows above the ground. The psalm contrasts this with those who take advice from the wicked, stand where sinners stand, and sit with scoffers, a quiet slide from walking to standing to sitting. Our habits of attention shape us. Today, decide on a small daily reading rhythm, perhaps a psalm or a gospel chapter, and put it at a fixed time. Consistency matters more than length.
Prayer
Lord, plant me by Your living water. Let my roots go deep in Your word. Amen.