March 20, 2018: SOAP #3029: Joshua 7-8; Psalm 69; 1Corinthians 5

Scripture:  Psalm (NIV) 69:30 I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. 31 This will please the LORD more than an ox, more than a bull with its horns and hoofs. 32 The poor will see and be glad—you who seek God, may your hearts live!

Observation:    The psalmist knew the character of God and what would please Him.  Obeying the Lord, he knew that a proper animal sacrifice would be accepted by God on his behalf.  But he also knew that God was a lover and desired the personal ministry of the worshiper.  The adoration from a worshiper’s heart would be more pleasing to the Lord than the sacrifice of an animal.

Application:   My wife loves children.  We have children in our house two, three, or four times each week.  She could just welcome them at the door, that would be sufficient, but no!  She prepares for their arrival hours before.  Activities are prepared for them to enjoy.  They are not just in our home, they are with Sharon.  They are her focus.  Just doing the minimum would not be acceptable!  No wonder children love to be here!

Those who truly love, are not satisfied with just “sufficient.”  They want to please the one they love “more!”  God is worthy of more than a gift of the least I can give.  He deserves the most I can give.

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, I want you to love being with me as the children love being with Sharon.  I want to please you more!  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!