Daily Devotion for June 12

 Verse

Psalm 1:1–2 (ESV)
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.

Meditation
The opening psalm presents two paths: the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. The blessed man is marked not only by what he avoids, but by what he loves. He refuses the influence of the ungodly—not merely in action, but in counsel, posture, and allegiance. His heart finds joy and sustenance in the Torah, the instruction of the LORD. This is no dry duty, but a living delight. To meditate day and night is to be continually shaped and nourished by the Word, as one who abides in the presence of God. This rootedness produces fruit in season and steadiness in drought. The psalm sets the tone for the life of the faithful: not one of isolation, but one of separation unto God—rooted, nourished, and secure in His Word.

New Testament
Colossians 3:16 (ESV)
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

Old Testament
Joshua 1:8 (ESV)
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

Collect
O LORD, whose Word is our life and light, plant us firmly in Your instruction, that meditating day and night we may delight in Your truth and walk steadfastly in Your ways, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Hymn Verse
Oh, that the Lord would guide my ways
To keep His statutes still!
Oh, that my God would grant me grace
To know and do His will!
— Oh, That the Lord Would Guide My Ways – LSB 707:1