Subscription Lists
Point of Reference
by Fred Price
This scripture from Psalm 40:8 can also be translated, “I desire to do your will…” The KJ and NIV versions choosing to accentuate slightly different aspects of the same word. The obvious truth of the matter being that we usually desire the things we delight in.
Delight is defined as a pleasing sensation, often experienced in anticipation of a desired object, occurrence or person’s company. Desire expressed as a longing or craving for that person, object or goal. Jesus characterizing it as “hungering and thirsting.” (Matthew 5:6) Scripture promising, if you “Delight yourself in the Lord… He will give you the desire of your heart.” Psalm 37:4
The Psalmist proclaimed that being in the presence of God was his “…joy and delight…” Psalm 43:4; describing the blessed man as one who delights in God’s law. (Psalm 1:2) But it might help us in our quest to please God to understand what delights Him. Scripture assuring us that, “If the Lord delights in a man’s way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him...” Ps. 37:23,24Jeremiah being inspired to list a few of the things displeasing to God, followed by the key to discerning his character, “…understand(ing) and know(ing) me.” Jer. 9:23,24Jesus assuring us that anyone striving to do God’s will, will find truth; gaining discernment, wisdom and purpose. (John 7:17) That truth then fostering determination which seeks out opportunities for genuine ministry, not mere lip-service. (See James 2:14-26)
On the flip-side of this issue, James writes about what, “…does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.” James 1:20,21 (See also James 2:14-26; 3:1-12; 4:1-5) Paul referencing a sin nature we are all afflicted with, admitting to his own struggle between his desire to do good while often failing to do it – at times actually doing “evil” instead. (Romans 7:15-25 See also Romans 8:5-8) Our sin nature often being hard to recognize because it tends to be a part of our emotional makeup; at its core being selfishness expressed in acts of jealousy, anger, uncontrolled desire, etc. Jesus recognizing the cause of Paul’s lament, saying “The spirit (of man) is willing, but the body is weak.” Matthew 26:41 Our downfall often occurring when, “…the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth…”, “choke out” our desire to do God’s will. (Matthew 13:22)
To counteract this natural inclination to sin, Paul admonishes us to stay focused, to be filled with and live by the Spirit, so that “…you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. “ Galatians 5:16 John pointing out the transient nature of the worldly things that entrap us: “…the craving of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does…” Assuring us that, “The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.” 1 John 2:15-17 Like Paul then, we must “…eagerly desire spiritual gifts…” that manifest themselves in service to God and our fellowman (1 Corinthians 14:1); even when those acts aren’t always appreciated or reciprocated.
In all things and circumstances, we should take Christ as our example and develop an others-first attitude. His determination to obey God taking him ultimately to the cross, gaining for him God’s approval and exaltation to a place of glory. (Philippians 2:5-11) Jesus himself instructing us to follow his example (John 13:15) through servanthood. (Matthew 20:25-28) Paul mirroring this spirit of service through “good works” (Ephesians 2:10), so much so that he openly expressed a willingness to trade places with the lost souls of Israel; wishing himself cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of his “brothers” – some of whom had been making his life especially difficult. (Romans 9:1-4)
The will or “work” of God, in its simplest form, is belief. (John 6:29) But with belief comes the expectation of action, a basic requirement of discipleship being our sharing of the good news of salvation with others. (Romans 10:14) Paul defining God’s goal for us, at least in part, as sanctification – the act of setting us apart as “holy” (1 Thessalonians 4:3-17) and justification – which frees us from the penalty of sin. (Romans 5:1) Both of which lead us, “…to the obedience that comes from faith.” Romans 1:5 A non-conforming, transformative process that helps us identify, recognize and affirm God’s will in our lives. (Romans 12:2) Our like-mindedness with God allowing him to work in and then through us, “…according to his good purpose.” Philippians 2:2 & 2:13 Again, Paul cautioning us to, “Be very careful, then, how you live… making the most of every opportunity… (by) understand(ing) what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 (See also Ephesians 5:3-7)
Scripture assures us that, “…God is able to make grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8 And explains how the “offices” of the church, listed in Ephesians 4:11, were instituted to, “…prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ (the church) may be built up…” Ephesians 4:12; making of us all,”…God’s fellow workers…” 1 Corinthians 3:9 Paul insisting that, “All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16,17
The Hebrew writer likewise spoke of the, “…things that accompany salvation. (Such as “…work produced by faith, …labor prompted by love,.. endurance inspired by hope..” 1 Thessalonians 1:3) For, “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people… We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure.” Hebrews 6:10,11 “…liv(ing) lives worthy of God…” 1 Thessalonians 2:12 Receiving in return the commendation of our Master, “Well done, good and faithful servant!... Come and share your Master’s happiness!” Matthew 25:21
Rate it:
Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
Receive the newest devotional each week in your inbox by joining the "Point of Reference" subscription list. Enter your email address below, click "Go!" and we will send you a confirmation email. Follow the instructions in the email to confirm your addition to this list.