Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. – Psalm 37:4
Think about the word delight. My first thought was to list all the things that I enjoy: eating chocolate, watching a funny movie, learning new things, spending time with friends and family, etc. But really, do those things truly delight me? I enjoy them, but delight is perhaps a little more intense. Webster describes it as “a high degree of gratification; joy.”
Certainly there are times in our lives when we are truly delighted. Even activities such as those listed above can be delightful, though not necessarily every time we do them. However, of all the wonderful things we can experience and be happy in, the best are the ones that come from God. True joy only comes from Him.
One example of a time when I experienced that special joy God gives was a few years ago when a cousin of mine was married. All who knew the couple were aware that they had prayed about this decision, and felt confident that this marriage was God’s plan. So on the day of the wedding, as I arrived to take my place as a bridesmaid, I felt very excited and happy—I was delighted! Most weddings are a happy occasion for the families involved, but because we knew this pairing was of God and that He would be at the center of their home, this was truly a time of joy, given by God.
Philippians 4:8 says, “Whatsoever things are true . . . pure . . . lovely . . . of good report . . . think on these things.” These types of things are what really bring delight. For instance, when we hear of an answer to prayer, this can delight us. And learning that a loved one has been saved—now that is delightful! There are many things for us to think about, and many things which demand our attention throughout the day. But let us remember to set our minds on the things of God. That is where we will find real joy.
Lord, help us to remember all the wonderful blessings You have given us, and to think on these things. Let our thankfulness flow out to others that they, too, may see Your goodness. Amen.