Monday, July 27, 2015

Pastor's Ponderings, July 27, 2015

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)
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
New International Version (NIV)
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
New International Version (NIV)
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
New International Version (NIV)
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
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)
When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them










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