The Choice that Shapes our Way
“The righteous flourish in God’s sight,
The ungodly perish in endless night.”
The Scriptures paint a vivid contrast between the path of the righteous and the way of the ungodly. Psalms 1:6 says, “For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.” — They went to different ways: the righteous do righteousness (1 John 3:7), while the ungodly dig up evil (Proverbs 16:27) — it’s a choice that shapes our way: flourishing or perishing.
Psalms 1:1–3 sets the foundation for this distinction: “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”
This passage tells us that delighting in God’s Word and walking in righteousness brings rewards and spiritual prosperity. A righteous person is compared to a well-nourished tree that is firmly rooted and grounded. Their lives are defined by stability, purpose, and determination. Let’s explore the significance of choosing the blessed path that leads to abundant life.
1. The Way of the Righteous
The path of the righteous is guided by God’s Word. As we seek His ways and wisdom, His Word becomes a lamp to our feet, directing our steps and leading us on the path of righteousness. It is a path filled with blessings and favors from the Lord. Psalms 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
2. The Fruitfulness of Righteousness
Living a righteous life bears fruit that impacts not only our own lives but also those around us. The righteous are like a tree of life, bringing spiritual nourishment and wisdom to others. In walking the blessed path, we have the privilege of leading lost souls to God. Proverbs 11:30 declares, “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.”
3. The Ultimate Source of Righteousness
Jesus Christ, the sinless Son of God, became sin for us so that we could be made righteous in Him. He is the ultimate source of righteousness, and through faith in Him, we are clothed in His righteousness. It is by His grace and sacrifice that we have access to the blessed path and experience the abundant life He offers.
None of us are righteous, not even one (Romans 3:10, 23) we are all sinners, “…as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags…” (Isaiah 64:6); but through Christ, we are made righteousness before God in Him- 2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
Did you know that the moon would be just dull if not for the SUN? It shines because its surface reflects light from the SUN. That’s a great illustration to see who we are without the SON. We are dark as the moon, but through the SON Jesus Christ our Lord, we bear the fruit of righteousness and impact lives for His glory, we reflect His righteousness in Him.
On the other hand, the way of the ungodly leads to destruction. Psalms 1:4–5 describes their fate: “The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.” Those who reject God’s ways and follow their desires will face emptiness, instability, and eternal separation from God.
Brethren, let us remember that the path of righteousness, though often challenging, leads to abundant life. Through God’s Word, we receive guidance and the promise of His presence.
Let us choose the path of righteousness, allowing Jesus to guide our steps and transform our lives.
May the Lord Jesus Christ be made known in all we do…
