May 18, 2019: SOAP #3452: 1Kings 2: 1Chronicles 29; Psalm 95; 2Thessalonians 1

Scripture: 1Chronicles (NIV) 29:16 [David’s prayer after receiving an offering for the building of the temple.] O LORD our God, as for all this abundance that we have provided for building you a temple for your Holy Name, it comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you. 17 I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you.

Observation: I want my life to please God. Pleasing God is such a small price when I consider everything He has done for me. I know that when my life on earth is over, I will stand before God for His evaluation of my works. (Note: entrance into heaven is not dependent on my works but on my faith in the work of Jesus on the cross.) Rewards will be given based on our works. So, it is always good to consider verses that show what pleases God.

God looks at our hearts. He is pleased when He finds integrity. He is pleased when my words and actions flow from a heart with right motives.

Application: May my works of service be expressions of the love in my heart and not from a desire to look good in the eyes of others. May my words and actions bring joy to God’s heart. May God’s smile be the only reward desired.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, keep a current check on my motives. I desire that every word and act bring you joy.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!