Delighting in God

Text: Philippians 1:12-21

The Gospel is more than forgiveness

Forgiveness is not the ultimate goal of the gospel. Forgiveness is always a means to something greater. If you sin against your spouse, and wound her with your

words,you need forgiveness. But not as an end in itself. You want forgiveness because you want her. The enjoyment

of her presence without the icy barrier of offense.

~ John Piper

Treasure God, Magnify Christ, Love People April 2017

All humanity seeks their own happiness:

What gives you the greatest pleasure?

What gives you true joy? What gives you lasting satisfaction?

You will make known to me the way of life;

In Your presence is fullness of joy;

In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.

Psalm 16:11

The sustaining power of satisfaction in Christ

You are content with imprisonment v.12-14

You are secure in being personally attacked v.15-17

You rejoice in any circumstance that proclaims Christ v.18

You want Christ to be exalted in your life or death v.19-20

You see death as gain v. 21

God commands us to take pleasure in Him

“Rejoice in the Lord, and again I say rejoice!” Philippians 4:4

“Delight yourself in the Lord.” Psalm 37:4

“Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous!” Psalm 32:11

“Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,

that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.” Psalm 90:14

When your pleasure in God grows deeper…

You will not be shaken by adversity

You will not be fearful in a pandemic

You will not be crushed by a diagnosis of cancer

You will not be overwhelmed by depression

You will not be blown away by bankruptcy

You will not despair over a divorce or prodigal children

You will not be anxious about an election or the future

You will not be devastated by your death or the death of others

Deepening your delight in God:

Meditate on His Goodness and Glory

Be thankful in all circumstances

Faithfully worship in private and with others

Perpetually praise God