When is God Delighted?

The prayer of the upright is the Lord's delight. (Prov. 15:8)

Prov. 15:1-8; I Kgs. 3:5-15 and 4:30-34; Lk. 2:40; I Cor. 1:24; Col. 2:3

What Is God Saying?

The Book of Proverbs consists of a series of short sayings, often unrelated. Although it is largely a compilation of sayings by Solomon, others in the post-Solomon era contributed to it. We discover that ‘Solomon uttered 3000 proverbs and 1005 songs’ (I Kings 4:29-34). He justly merited a widespread reputation for wisdom. They came from ‘all peoples to hear the wisdom of Solomon.’ While he knew and drew from the wisdom of the East, there is nothing in Proverbs that does not square with the standards of God, and to this day there is nothing that has rendered its message irrelevant. It is a timely, straightforward, dependable, guide for living.

How Does This Apply To Us?

That which was wisely said in the Spirit should be wisely heard in the heart. Above all, it should be wisely done in life. Prayer is the gift that pleases God. Here is a practical way to delight Him. It is not vague or unclear; not difficult or beyond our means. It is simply to pray. God created us for fellowship with Him. Prayerfulness is the spring of joy and life and peace, not only to us but to God as well.

Pray With Me

Lord, You encourage me to ask for things, but today I want to think about giving rather than always asking for something from You.

• I will try to lift other's burdens and see the delight of the Lord.

• I will try to be forgiving and in the gaining of a friend, see the delight of the Lord.

• I will try to be present for someone who might comfort and see in them the delight of the Lord.

• I will try to share the blessings you have given me and see the delight of the Lord.

I have nothing that You didn't give me. I bring nothing that will make You richer. Accept my heartfelt desire today that You will find delight in me.

For the sake of Jesus Christ and to His everlasting glory. Amen.

Moving On In The Life of Prayer

It will encourage us to come to prayer when we know our speaking and listening to God is His delight, ‘The prayer of the upright is the Lord’s delight.’