Study Guide for

Tunes for the Road

The Way Things Work - Psalm 1

July 19, 2009

Open Up

Computing is based on the “binary principle” - a circuit is on or off, no in-between. What are some other examples from everyday life of situations with only two possibilities, with no in-between? TRANSITION: We’re used to having multiple options, but some times we must choose between two ways with no in-between.

Dig In

BACKGROUND There are three types of worship songs in Psalms: orientation, disorientation, and reorientation. Psalm 1 is an example of Orientation - core principles of walking with God. Disorientation psalms, also known as laments, are honest looks at life’s hard times. The Psalms don’t ignore reality, they complain – loudly! Reorientation psalms are focused on the joy of restoration.

(1) Psalm 1 uses contrasts like fruitful tree versus windblown chaff to show the choice between righteousness and wickedness. After you read Psalm 1, discuss with your group practical ways to be wise about the company we keep (verse 1), the book we follow (verse 2), and the fruit we bear (verse 3) OPTIONAL Prosperity (verse 3) and God’s providence (verse 6) do not mean an easy life (John 16:33). Read Galatians 5:19-25 and Matthew 7:16-20 for more about what the Bible means by fruitful.

(2) Read Deuteronomy 30:15-20 and Proverbs 8:32-36. Moses offered Israel the same choice the writer of Proverbs offered readers: follow God or follow the world. Israel initially made godly choices, but then ignored God, which led to collapse. Making an initial wise choice must be followed through with everyday wise choices.  What are some things that draw us away from God? BACKGROUND Bible scholars classify Psalm 1 in the “wisdom” tradition. Psalm 1, as well as Proverbs 8 and Deuteronomy 30, are tools for training the next generation in making God-directed choices.

(3) Jesus also described life choices in “either-or” language. Read Matthew 7:13-14 and 7:24-27.  Why does the world try to find a “third way” or “middle ground” with Jesus? Talk with your group about how to respond with both truth and grace. OPTIONAL Read John 14:5-6 for Jesus’ clearest statement on exclusivity.

Work On

Discuss with your group the difference between “delighting in God’s law” versus legalism.  How well does your small group “delight” and “meditate” on God’s word?  What can you do to improve?

Lift Up

God calls us to live wisely, thankfully Jesus sacrificed himself for fools likes us (Romans 5:6-8).  In prayer, ask for the Spirit’s wisdom, and thank Him for forgiveness when we don’t deserve it.

Another Step – Advanced Study

(1) Read Deuteronomy 6:20-25 and Joshua 1:7-8. Contemporary “Yay God” stories are a starting point for recognizing God’s direction, but how can Bible history also guide us? 

(2) Growing U events like “How to Study the Bible” (Friday 24 July – Saturday 25 July) are useful next steps in “delighting in God’s law.”