Scripture: Psalm 147:10-11 – “His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the speed of a runner; but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.”
We spend a lot of time trying to figure out what makes us happy, and I find that it is often and endless cycle of moving through periods of anticipation, elation, disappointment, and boredom. There is a new television series or a new article of clothing or a new project. We throw our emotions into them, only to find them not as great as we hoped, or at best fleeting pleasures that fade with time.
Our faith teaches us that we should instead spend our time trying to please God. We kind of know that this involves prayer and avoiding sin. But we can get confused about what exactly this means. Often, we conflate, usually sub-consciously, what pleases us with what pleases God and make excuses for them aligning. Since God creates us to find delight in each other, in our creations, and in the world around us, it would seem like God would want us to see pleasure there. So, what are the criteria for what pleases God?
If what we do makes us feel a connection to God, to a power greater than ourselves, to a power of love and mercy, then it is likely that it is pleasing to God. If what we do makes us feel strong or powerful at the expense of others, it is probably not pleasing to God. As Psalm 147 indicates it is awe or “fear” of God’s majesty and hope in love that truly pleases God, not all the things we can do or all the things we can possess. So, find happiness in the world around you, but find joy in bringing justice and love to that world.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we lift you up as our example of one who brought joy to the world through your love and selflessness. Let your model ever guide us to please you. Amen.
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