Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. – Psalm 1:1-2
As I read this passage, I was drawn to that word delight. I have often heard the warning to watch my walk. I have been instructed many times to meditate on God’s Word, but I have not heard much about delighting in it.
Delight means “to give someone great pleasure or satisfaction.” God promises blessings to the one who does not just read and meditate on the Bible but also delights in His Law. Reading the Bible is not just about checking off a Christian chore list or getting daily instruction; it should be our delight.
Another familiar verse dealing with delight is Psalm 37:4, Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. We are told in other verses to serve the Lord, and we should. We are also told to honor the Lord, which is necessary. However, if we delight in Him, we will be fulfilling both of these commands––to serve and honor Him.
Psalm 37:11 tells us that the meek …shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. While many people may delight in the turmoil and chaos of gossip, the meek delight in the peace that comes from the Lord.
While the Bible gives many examples of those who delight in lies, scorning, cursing, war, and selfish living, let us model our way after Psalm 40:8, I delight to do that will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. Like David, let us find great pleasure doing God’s will. We should carry God’s Word within our hearts so His instructions guide in everything we do.
The Bible also mentions several times that God delighted in His servant. Imagine bringing God so much satisfaction and pleasure in how you live for Him! Think of a father whose child scores a point for their team, and the whole crowd can hear him declare, “That’s my boy!”
What do you delight in? Do you delight in God’s Word, eagerly waiting for the next opportunity to read and pour over what He says? Do you get excited about doing God’s will, or has it just become another item to check off the to-do list? Do you delight in peace, or do you seek out drama or create problems to keep things “interesting?” Does your life bring delight to your Saviour?
Let us all determine to delight ourselves in the things of God so that He will delight in us also!
by Vicki Voorhis
