Psalm 1:1-6 <== click the verse to read. This psalm is a foundational Psalm that contrasts the life of the righteous person who delights in God's law with the life of the wicked, essentially presenting two distinct paths in life - one leading to blessing and the other to destruction; it highlights the importance of actively choosing to live according to God's instructions to experience true happiness. 

Key points of Psalm 1: 

• Central theme:
  The blessedness of the righteous man who meditates on God's law compared to the misery of the wicked who disregard it. Stay focused on The Lord. 
• Imagery:
  The righteous person is depicted as a tree planted by streams of water, flourishing and thriving, reminding us of the garden of Eden when we were in perfect fellowship with God. While the wicked are like chaff blown away by the wind. 
• Contrast between actions:
  The righteous person "does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers". Never take advice from one who lies and do wicked things. 
• Focus on delight:
  The key element is the righteous person's "delight" in the law of the Lord, indicating an active engagement with God's word. Be rooted in God’s word The Bible. Stay joined to God through communication with Him in prayer. 

Important aspects to consider when studying Psalm 1: 

• The two paths:
  Analyze how the Psalm clearly outlines the two distinct choices individuals face - to follow God's ways or to follow the path of the wicked. 
• The consequences of each path:
  Understand how the Psalm describes the positive outcomes for the righteous (prosperity, stability) and the negative consequences for the wicked (destruction, instability). 
• Application to daily life:
  Reflect on how the principles of Psalm 1 can be applied to your own life, considering the choices you make and the company you keep. Avoid wicked people and wicked ways. even when the person may not seem wicked but partakes in ways that are rooted in wickedness.  
• God’s way will prosper. The evil way will end in ruins. 

Potential discussion questions for studying Psalm 1: 

• What does it mean to "delight" in the law of the Lord?
  
• How can you actively avoid the influence of "the counsel of the wicked" in your life?
  
• What does the imagery of the tree planted by streams of water represent?
  
• How does this Psalm challenge you to think about your relationship with God and His word?