A Life That is Pleasing to God

Planned for God’s Pleasure

Ephesians 1:5 “Because of His love, God had already decided that through Jesus Christ He would make us His children – this was His pleasure and purpose.”

Pleasing God through Worship “The Lord is pleased only with those who worship Him and trust in Him.” (Ps.147:11) “Worship Him continually.” (Ps. 105:4) “Praise Him from sunrise to sunset.” (Ps.113:3)

Victory through Surrender

Romans 12:1 “Because of God’s mercy to us, offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to His service and to pleasing Him – This is the true worship that you should offer.”

Why is Surrendering so Hard? Lack of Trust “Love casts out all fear” (I Jn. 4:18) “God proves His love for us in this: while we were still sinners Christ died for us.” (Rom. 5:8)

Why is Surrendering so Hard? Pride “Surrender yourself to the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” (Ps. 37:7) “Submit to God and you will have peace; then things will go well for you.” (Job 22:21)

Becoming a Friend of God

2 Corinthians 5:18 “All this is done by God, who through Christ changed us from enemies into His friends.”

John 15:15 “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his Master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I have learned from my Father, I have made known to you.”

Jeremiah 9:24 “If any want to boast, they should boast that they know and understand me…These are the things that please me.”

Keys to Friendship with God Constant Conversation “Pray without Ceasing” (I Thes.5:17)

Keys to Friendship with God Continual Meditation “Friendship with God is reserved for those who reverence Him. With them alone He shares the secrets of His promises.” (Ps. 25:14)

Keys to Friendship with God Desiring it More than Anything Else “The one thing I ask of the Lord, the thing I seek most – is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord’s perfections and meditating in His Temple.” (Ps. 27:4)