Introduction

Good morning, Church! A hearty welcome to everyone. Today, we're diving deep into the Book of Psalms, Psalm 1:1 to be exact. It's a passage that proclaims: "Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers." What a powerful statement! This verse is a treasure chest filled with wisdom on how to find true happiness, the blessing of righteousness, and a stark warning about the danger of self-centeredness.

Before we start today’s message, let me read you a quote by David Brainerd that I want you to keep in mind throughout the sermon. He once said, "If you hope for happiness in the world, hope for it from God, and not from the world."

Let's bow our heads as we start with a prayer.

Lord, we ask that you open our hearts and minds to the lessons in Psalm 1:1. Help us to understand its profound truth and learn from it. Teach us, dear God, how to walk in righteousness, find true happiness and avoid the pitfalls of self-centeredness. Amen.

Now, let's dive in.

The Source of True Happiness

The source of true happiness, as stated in Psalm 1:1, is not found in the company of the wicked, the sinners, or the mockers. Instead, it is found in the path of righteousness and obedience to God's word. This concept is not just a religious belief, but a universal truth that transcends all cultures and religions. True happiness is not about material wealth, fame, or power. These are fleeting and can be taken away in an instant. True happiness is about inner peace, contentment, and a sense of fulfillment that comes from living a life of purpose, guided by moral and ethical principles.

The first part of the verse: "Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked." This implies that true happiness is not found in following the crowd, especially when the crowd is heading in the wrong direction. It is about making the right choices, even when those choices are difficult or unpopular. It is about standing up for what is right, even when it is easier to go along with what is wrong. It is about being true to oneself and to one's values, even when others are not.

The second part of the verse: "or stand in the way that sinners take." This suggests that true happiness is not found in the pursuit of selfish desires or in the gratification of the senses. It is not about seeking pleasure at the expense of others or at the expense of one's own soul. It is about self-discipline, self-control, and self-sacrifice. It is about putting the needs of others before one's own needs, and about giving rather than taking.

The third part of the verse: "or sit in the company of mockers." This indicates that true happiness is not found in cynicism, skepticism, or scorn. It is not about tearing others down or belittling their beliefs. It is about respect, tolerance, and understanding. It is about building others up and encouraging their growth. It is about being a positive influence in the world, rather than a negative one.

It is about living a life of integrity, compassion, and love. It is about being a blessing to others, rather than a curse. It is about making a positive difference in the world, rather than a negative one.

The Blessing of Righteousness

The blessing of righteousness is a divine gift that is bestowed upon those who choose to walk in the path of righteousness, a path that is illuminated by God's word and His divine principles ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO