THINGS THAT MAKE GOD HAPPY
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 15:7
"I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance."
Supporting Texts: Psalm 147:11, Hebrews 11:6, Micah 6:8, Matthew 25:21, John 4:23-24
INTRODUCTION
Many people wonder about what pleases God. While we often focus on seeking God’s blessings and favour, it is important to understand the things that bring joy to His heart. Just as a loving father delights in the obedience and well-being of his children, so does God rejoice over those who walk in His ways.
The Bible reveals that God finds joy in righteousness, faith, obedience, worship, and the salvation of souls. When we live according to His will, we bring pleasure to Him, and in return, He blesses us. God’s happiness is not based on material things, but on our devotion and alignment with His purpose.
This sermon will explore five key things that make God happy and how we can align our lives with them. As we learn these truths, may our lives become a source of joy to the Almighty.
1. REPENTANCE AND SALVATION OF SOULS
a) God Desires All to Be Saved (1 Timothy 2:3-4)
God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked but rejoices when sinners repent.
b) The Joy of Heaven Over One Sinner (Luke 15:7,10)
Each time a soul turns to God, there is great rejoicing in heaven.
c) The Mission of Jesus Christ (Luke 19:10)
Jesus came to seek and save the lost, and fulfilling this purpose brings joy to the Father.
d) Our Duty to Win Souls (Proverbs 11:30)
God is pleased when believers take evangelism seriously and bring others to Christ.
e) Biblical Example: The Conversion of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-9)
Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus led to his repentance, and Jesus rejoiced, declaring that salvation had come to his house.
2. FAITH AND TRUST IN GOD
a) Faith is the Key to Pleasing God (Hebrews 11:6)
Without faith, it is impossible to make God happy.
b) Trusting God in All Circumstances (Proverbs 3:5-6)
God is pleased when we rely on Him completely, even in difficult situations.
c) Obedience as a Sign of Faith (James 2:17-18)
True faith is demonstrated through actions that align with God's word.
d) Seeking God with a Sincere Heart (Jeremiah 29:13)
Those who diligently seek Him are rewarded, and this brings Him joy.
e) Biblical Example: Abraham’s Faith (Genesis 22:1-18)
Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac showed his complete trust in God, which pleased the Lord greatly.
3. TRUE WORSHIP AND PRAISE
a) Worship in Spirit and Truth (John 4:23-24)
God seeks worshippers who honour Him with sincerity and truth.
b) Praise as a Sacrifice (Hebrews 13:15)
When we praise God from our hearts, it brings Him joy.
c) Thanksgiving in All Things (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
A grateful heart pleases God and attracts His blessings.
d) Living a Life of Worship (Romans 12:1)
True worship is not just about singing but about living a holy life that glorifies God.
e) Biblical Example: David’s Heart of Worship (2 Samuel 6:14-22)
David danced before the Lord with all his might, showing unreserved praise that pleased God.
4. OBEDIENCE TO HIS WORD
a) God Delights in Obedience Over Sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22)
Obeying God’s word is more important than religious rituals.
b) Keeping His Commandments (John 14:15)
Loving God is demonstrated through obedience to His commands.
c) Walking in His Ways (Deuteronomy 10:12-13)
God is pleased when we follow His instructions and live righteously.
d) Bearing Good Fruits (John 15:8)
When we live productive, Christlike lives, we bring glory and joy to God.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus’ Obedience to the Father (Philippians 2:8-11)
Jesus’ obedience to death on the cross brought great pleasure to God, and He was exalted.
5. ACTS OF LOVE AND COMPASSION
a) Loving Others as God Loves Us (1 John 4:7-8)
Since God is love, He is pleased when we show love to others.
b) Helping the Needy (Proverbs 19:17)
When we care for the less fortunate, we honour God and make Him happy.
c) Forgiving One Another (Matthew 6:14-15)
God delights in those who forgive and let go of offenses.
d) Living in Unity and Peace (Psalm 133:1)
God rejoices when His children dwell together in love and harmony.
e) Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)
The Samaritan’s act of kindness pleased God and exemplified true love for others.
CONCLUSION
God’s happiness is not based on material offerings or religious rituals, but on our obedience, faith, worship, and love for others. When we walk in righteousness, win souls, and serve Him faithfully, we bring Him great joy.
As believers, our goal should not only be to receive from God but also to live in a way that pleases Him. May our lives continually bring joy to our Heavenly Father, and may we always seek to do the things that make Him happy.
PRAYER POINTS
- Lord, help me to live a life that brings joy to Your heart.
- Father, give me the grace to walk in obedience and righteousness.
- Holy Spirit, fill my heart with love and compassion for others.
- Lord, make me a true worshipper who honours You in spirit and truth.
- Father, let my life be a testimony that draws others to You.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS
- You shall live a life that pleases God and brings Him great joy!
- Every act of faith and obedience in your life shall attract divine blessings!
- Your worship shall be acceptable before the Lord, and He shall dwell in your praises!
- You shall be a vessel of love, kindness, and compassion, reflecting God’s nature!
- Your life shall be a shining light that draws many into the kingdom of God!
May the Lord help us all to do the things that bring Him joy in Jesus’ name!
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