Shaped By God’s Word

SHAPED BY GOD’S WORD

a prayer to open

Here’s my heart, Lord. Speak what is true.

Here’s my life, Lord. Speak what is true.

Oh, the joys of those who do not

follow the advice of the wicked,

or stand around with sinners,

or join in with mockers.

But they delight in the law of the LORD,

meditating on it day and night.

They are like trees planted along the riverbank,

bearing fruit each season.

Their leaves never wither,

and they prosper in all they do.

But not the wicked!

They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.

They will be condemned at the time of judgment.

Sinners will have no place among the godly.

For the LORD watches over the path of the godly,

but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.

The things we do on a regular basis are the things that shape us. When we exercise and eat vegetables regularly, we become people who are more likely to be physically healthy. When we sleep eight hours a night, we become people who are more likely to be well rested. Psalm 1 reminds us that when we meditate on Scripture daily, we become people who are more likely to follow God’s ways and turn away from things that lead to disappointment and heartache. How might our lives be shaped if our days began and ended with Scripture?

• Read this passage again slowly. What word or phrase stands out to you? Why do you think that particular word or phrase speaks to you? What does it say?
• What regular practices do you have built into each day, each week, and each month? Which of these routines shape your mind, heart, and body for the positive? Which for the negative?
• What emotions and thoughts occupy your mind and heart the most during a typical day? In what ways do the things you read, listen to, and watch contribute to those emotions and thoughts?

Watch over me, Lord, and help me walk in step with you. Plant in me a deep hunger for your Word, and focus my mind on the things that matter to you. Give me the resolve and courage to run from the things that distract me from you, that pull me away from your plans for me, and that lead me down a path of destruction. Mold my heart and character to reflect yours. Amen.