Before leaving on summer travels, I was pricked in my heart to delve into things that are pleasing to God. How do we know if we are pleasing Him? Scripture is specific about this and I want to explore a few in the weeks ahead.

When was the last time you sent or gave a gift to someone? How did that make you feel? I know I love to get gifts, but really I love to give them more. It is like giving a part of myself to someone without their asking. Scripture tells us that gift giving is pleasing to God! In Philippians 4:18 Paul says, “ I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.” He was expressing thanks for their monetary gifts given to take care of them on the mission field. They were giving from their hearts and Paul realized their sacrifice. Giving to and for others to do God’s work is definitely pleasing to God.

Hebrews 13:16 “ Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Giving, sharing and doing for others pleases God. Why is that? I would say because it fulfills Jesus’ command in John 13:35-36 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” By loving others we show our love and Jesus’ love towards them. This is definitely pleasing to God.

So take a few minutes today and consider whether or not your actions would be considered pleasing by God. Do you give to ministry both here and abroad so that the gospel can be proclaimed? Are you involved in doing good for others be it your Christian friends, neighbors or those you do not know? Are you actively involved in giving and sharing? How will people know you are a believer if you do not show God to them by your words and deeds?

Food for thought and reflection as we desire to be pleasing to God and our Savior through the power of the Holy Spirit. Let 1 Corinthians 10:31 be your hearts desire, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Let God shine in your life as you seek to please Him.

Linda