Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. – Psalm 37:4
Human beings take delight in many things – family, music, sports, camping, or watching TV or movies. None of these are bad in themselves, but it is wise to regularly take stock of the value you place on what delights you the most.
God’s instructions in Psalm 37 lay a foundation for your daily life. He especially wants you to know that if you delight in Him, He will “give you the desires of your heart” (today’s verse). As a believer, you have two natures, the carnal and sinful and the spiritual and pure. The Holy Spirit within you is ready to shape your desires to be in harmony with those of your precious Lord. However, you have to be a willing participant in this transformation by spending time in His Word and in prayer.
The value King David placed in God’s Word is evident in Psalm 119, “If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction” (v. 92). And again, “I love your commandments above gold, above fine gold” (v. 127). To delight in God is to want to know Him by delving into what He has to say. It is placing the highest value on Him and His Word. This devotion and discipline will align your desires with His desires for you. “Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing” (Psalm 34:10b).
Let becoming more Christlike be your purpose and giving God the glory due Him be your goal. You can be an example to those around you of the joy it is to delight in Him, encouraging them to experience the same. Pray that the leaders of this nation turn to God and delight in Him. Intercede for them to find Christ and the abundant joy He offers.
Today’s Verse: Psalm 37:4
Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 119:1-10
Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord!
2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies,
who seek him with their whole heart,
3 who also do no wrong,
but walk in his ways!
4 You have commanded your precepts
to be kept diligently.
5 Oh that my ways may be steadfast
in keeping your statutes!
6 Then I shall not be put to shame,
having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
7 I will praise you with an upright heart,
when I learn your righteous rules.
8 I will keep your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me!
9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 With my whole heart I seek you;
let me not wander from your commandments!
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
