Strong, Stately, and Successful

[302 words] “[The righteous] will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers” (Ps. 1:3). One of the best ways to communicate truth and beauty is by a simile or metaphor; this psalm does this with unforgettable vividness. What is the righteous man really like? “A tree” is the imagery that is used. To begin with, he has stability. He has been planted near the streams of water. The winds, waves, and violent circumstances of life cannot uproot him or shake him from his life in God. His relationship with God provides the strength that he needs for all the difficulties of life. Furthermore, he has sustenance. All the resources that he needs are available to him. In Christ he is complete, possessing all spiritual blessings. He does…