What Gives God Pleasure?
Those of us who love the Lord want to please and obey Him.
We go out of our way to know the things that will displease Him and avoid
them. But today let's focus on what actually pleases God.
It is astounding that the great I AM, the great King of Kings
and Lord of Lords is so happy when His children do well (Psalm
35:27). He desires that his children live to their full potential, be
healthy and live productive lives. God is not overjoyed when
sickness, disease and torment falls upon us, even if it is something we
must experience for a season. Unlike popular media who depict a harsh God
who is anxious to bring earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes upon the
heathen, He actually wants us to thrive in every part of our lives (3
John 1:2)
He also rejoices when more children are added to
the kingdom so that they can also live blessed lives (Luke 15:7). He
wants us to live lives of faith (Hebrews 11:6), continually praise
Him, strive to do the right things and share with those in need
(Hebrews 13:15-16). This is the life that pleases God.
The Bible states that when our lives please the Lord, we
receive great benefits (Proverbs 16:7). Enoch made God so happy that He
decided that he did not want him to die but decided to take him to be with Him
while he lived (Hebrews 11:5).
This week, let us remember to think about, honor, worship, and
praise God for this pleases Him. Know that it is His fervent desire to please
us also.
Psalm 35:27
New International Version (NIV)
New International Version (NIV)
27 May
those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may
they always say, “The Lord be exalted, who delights in the well-being of
his servant.”
3 John 1:2
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International Version (NIV)
2 Dear
friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with
you, even as your soul is getting along well.
Luke 15:7
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New International Version (NIV)
7 I
tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one
sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to
repent.
Hebrews 11:5
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International Version (NIV)
5 By
faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He
could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken,
he was commended as one who pleased God.
Hebrews 13:15-16
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New International Version (NIV)
15 Through
Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the
fruit of lips that openly profess his name. 16 And do not forget to
do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
Proverbs 16:7
New International Version (NIV)
New International Version (NIV)
7 When
the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make
peace with them