Slideshow image

Bible Verse Study: Psalm 1:1 – The Blessed Man

Verse (NKJV):

"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;"

Key Hebrew Words:

  • אַשְׁרֵי (’ashrê) – Blessed, happy, deeply contented

    • From the root אָשַׁר (’ashar), meaning to go straight or advance.

    • It’s not just circumstantial happiness but a deep, spiritual joy from right living.

  • עֵצָה (ʿētsah) – Counsel, advice, or plan

    • Refers to influence or guidance—this is the inner worldview or input shaping a life.

  • לֵצִים (lētsîm) – Scorners, mockers

    • These are those who actively oppose or ridicule righteousness.

Contextual Insight:

Psalm 1 serves as the gateway to the entire Psalter. It contrasts two ways of life: the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. Verse 1 introduces the righteous man not by what he does, but by what he avoids.

This verse is a progression of influence—from walking to standing to sitting—suggesting increasing comfort and identification with sin.

Verse Structure:

  1. Walks not in the counsel of the ungodly

    • Influence level: Where you get your advice or worldview.

  2. Nor stands in the path of sinners

    • Behavioral level: Where you choose to stop and associate.

  3. Nor sits in the seat of the scornful

    • Identity level: Where you belong and become settled.

This is a descending spiritual path—from casually accepting wrong counsel to fully identifying with those who mock righteousness.

Themes:

  • Spiritual discernment – The blessed person is discerning about who influences them.

  • Progression of compromise – Sin often begins with small steps: hearing, then standing, then dwelling.

  • Counter-cultural living – The blessed life is one that refuses popular but ungodly norms.

Reflection / Application:

  • Who or what shapes your decisions—godly wisdom or popular opinion?

  • Are there voices you need to stop walking with or sitting under?

  • Blessing comes not just from doing the right things, but from avoiding corrupt influences.

Try journaling: “Where have I become comfortable with sin’s counsel or culture?”

Prayer Prompt:

Lord, help me walk in Your ways and not be swayed by the counsel of the ungodly. Give me discernment to recognize the influence of sin and courage to separate from it. Let me find joy in living differently—blessed, holy, and close to You.