Psalm 1:1-3 reveals two basic principles to guide you as you pursue success in your career. These principles are completely trustworthy. They come from an impeccable source, i.e., God’s Word, and they have been tested over the centuries and proven to be reliable.
Psalm 1:1-3 reads:
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
Success Principle #1: Choose friends of good character.
Psalm 1 begins by telling you to not “walk … stand … or sit” with “the wicked … sinners … [or] mockers.” The people you spend your time with will influence your destiny.
“Man” used here means human being, or person, and refers to both male and female.
You can’t always choose your co-workers, but you can choose who you seek out and befriend in the workplace. Associate with productive and positive people. Choose friends of good character—avoid the unscrupulous and the ungodly.
First Corinthians 15:33 is speaking to believers when it says, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character,’” and Proverbs 12:26, “A righteous man is cautious in friendship.”
Be a Christian witness to all, but be selective when choosing your friends, close associates, and organizational affiliations.
Success Principle #2: Do all things God’s way.
This is to “delight is in the law of the Lord” and “meditates” on it “day and night.”
In the language of the Old Testament to “meditate” is to speak, utter, or murmur. People who are successful in life embrace God’s Word, speak it internally in their heart, and use it as a guide for their everyday choices.
Culture-driven definitions of what is good, right, and valuable come and go, but Isaiah 40:8 declares, “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.”
We will all be tempted with unethical shortcuts and worldly compromises, but staying true to God’s Word always brings the best results. Obedience to God is never a mistake.
Finally, the reward for the person who chooses friends of good character and does things God’s way is revealed at the very end of the passage.
Psalm 1:3 declares God’s reward as, “Whatever he does prospers.”
The person who “prospers” in life yields “fruit in season.” They enjoy God and others, and are characterized as a success rather than a failure. Do you want to prosper in life? Start by associating with people of good character, and then do everything God’s way.