7 Minute Read
Be Still
To the best of your ability, get rid of all distractions. Take a couple of minutes to breathe deeply, to quiet yourself in the Lord’s presence. Then, prayerfully ask the Lord to speak to you in this time and let Him know that you will be listening and will make whatever adjustments He will reveal to you.
Today’s Bible Reading:
2 Kings 15:1–16:20
Acts 19:13-41
Psalm 147:1-20
Proverbs 18:4-5
Listen to the Lord
Slowly and reflectively read the following verses and listen to what God will say to you through them. Then, consider writing down any insights He reveals to you.
Reflections from Scripture:
We know what it’s like to be happy. When we are reunited with a beloved family member, we are overjoyed. When we enjoy a delicious meal with a friend, we are delighted. Any number of scenarios can bring us great pleasure.
Psalm 147:10-11 (NLT): “He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse or in human might. No, the LORD’s delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love.”
But have you ever wondered what brings God’s pleasure? Have you ever wondered what it takes to make God happy?
In the verse I have chosen for today, we learn that the Lord finds great pleasure in observing and enjoying a relationship with those who “fear Him.” This refers to those people who recognize His might and His ability to discipline those who disobey. Yet, they don’t live in perpetual fear of the Lord. They simply have a profound respect for Him that causes them to stand in awe of their great God.
Friend, do you “fear the Lord?” Do you have such a biblical view of God that you stand in awe of Him? Does your knowledge of His power and holiness motivate you to obey Him and abstain from disobedience?
In the verse that I have chosen for today, we also learn that God delights in people “who put their hope in his unfailing love.” This refers to people who don’t typically get down and discouraged with the trials of life. Instead, they rest in God’s great love for them and find such comfort and strength there.
Friend, do you “put your hope in his unfailing love?” Do you reflect on God’s great love for you and find your strength and hope in Him?
These qualities of a mature God-follower are incredibly significant. They are the very traits that God loves. When God finds people who fear Him and hope in His unfailing love, it makes Him happy.
Why not focus on making God happy today?
Psalm 147:10-11 (NLT): “He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse or in human might. No, the LORD’s delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love.”
Spend Time in Prayer
Lord Jesus, You have made me so that I can enjoy You and find my happiness in the experience. But you have also intended for me to live so that my actions bring You pleasure. So, help me enjoy You and live so that I can make You happy, too. Thank you so much that salvation isn’t simply fire insurance – it is an invitation into a soul-satisfying, happy relationship with the God of the universe. Thank you! Amen.
Matt Ellis is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Polk City, Florida (fbcpolkcity.com). His latest book is God’s Grace in the Real World. Connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
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