Chapter 2 →

Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 1, the wisdom literature continues to explore prayer, worship, lament, praise, and trust in God. Lutheran interpretation often emphasizes humanity’s limitations and the need to rely on God's grace and promises. The chapter highlights the contrast between human striving and the faithfulness of God.

Theme: Wisdom, prayer, and faithful living Key people: Wise figures Key place: Israel Liturgical use: Wisdom lections
1 Blessed {is} the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. {ungodly: or, wicked}
Psalms 1:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 But his delight {is} in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
Psalms 1:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. {wither: Heb. fade}
Psalms 1:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 The ungodly {are} not so: but {are} like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
Psalms 1:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
Psalms 1:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Psalms 1:6 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.