2026 Epiphany Devotions
Tuesday, February 10
Psalm 1
1 Happy are those
who do not follow the advice of the wicked
or take the path that sinners tread
or sit in the seat of scoffers,
2 but their delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law they meditate day and night.
3 They are like trees
planted by streams of water,
which yield their fruit in its season,
and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper.
4 The wicked are not so
but are like chaff that the wind drives away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment
nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous,
6 for the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
“… 4 The wicked are not so but are like chaff that the wind drives away. …”
It’s easy to get frustrated when we see those who do evil get away scott-free. It’s as if they have a special protection that allows them to do and say things that are offensive, harmful, and hurtful yet escape accountability. For such folks, we often have contempt. At times, we may also wish that they’d get their due.
The Scriptures are full of stories of those who violate God’s laws, thumb their noses at God’s righteousness, and yet continue to thrive. They are disobedient and lack faith, yet they remain in charge, often even lauding their wickedness over the righteous. This is not just a modern dilemma.
That’s why God, through the psalmist, reminds us that, despite appearances to the contrary, the wicked will pass away like chaff. Their kingdom will eventually fall. And, while we may take some satisfaction in knowing that, more importantly, we delight in the promise that God’s righteousness will ultimately prevail. Despite whatever evil is happening this day, God’s will shall be accomplished, God’s righteousness will win out, and the grace and mercy of our Lord will break forth like the dawn.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the promise that Your will, Your righteousness, and Your love and mercy will prevail. Remind me not to lose hope nor waver in my faithfulness to You. Amen.