He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers (Psalm 1:3).

Sports movies frequently found their way onto our TV growing up. There is a good portion of my vocabulary that has been molded by football movie quotes. The actions and emotions of the players and coaches leading up to the big game at the end never failed to inspire me. 

But of course, the most significant element of rising action came during the pregame speeches. This is where the coach or one of the team captains says exactly what the rest of the players need to hear to get fired up and play their hardest for the next 60 minutes. Whatever they said seemed to perfectly encapsulate all the struggle the team faced that season and served to rally everyone around each other to win. At this point, little David was ready to run through a wall.

Psalm 1 strikes me as King David’s pregame speech. It introduces the Bible’s book of prayers and praises in a way that seems to prepare the reader for the journey that is to follow. To me, it reads like David is saying, “Alright team, you have two choices: the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. What do you think will lead to a victory? How do you want this game to go?” And David, a man after God’s own heart, is sure to remind his team which of these paths is with the Lord and which is not (Psalm 1:6).

What pregame speech would be complete without reminding the team that success can be found even in the face of adversity if they stay tough and don’t give up? David adds that element in verse 3 with the image of a firmly planted tree. He calls the reader to be rooted in the way of righteousness with streams of water (living waters, perhaps?) to nourish us and keep us strong. Yet, the fruit of the tree is not constantly produced and harvested. We all have our seasons, just like trees. David reminds us that there will come a time when we feel like things aren’t going our way, like we just can’t find success. But we must be patient. Stand firm in the way of righteousness and in all you do, you will prosper. Victory is on the horizon!

It's game time! Are you ready? David tells us the way of righteousness is the game plan given to us by the Lord for success. Walk this path and prosper!