Saturday, May 14, 2011

Great Delight


One of my favorite Scripture verses is Zephaniah 3:17 (New International Version). The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. 
He will take great delight in you; 
in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”

I especially love the phrases He delights in me and rejoices over me with singing! What do people passionately desire if not to be loved unconditionally and wildly?

Can you imagine the difference it makes walking through life knowing that the eternal God, Creator of heaven and earth thinks you’re cool.

If a spouse disappoints you, God never will. If a child professes to hate you, a friend abandons you, never jump into the pit of despair. You have a layer of love over you so deep that no human hurt has the power to penetrate your core unless you allow it.

What’s not to like about knowing you’re loved like this? My heart goes out to those children and adults who walk through the difficult emotional challenges of life without knowing how deeply treasured they are by God.

I also like this verse because it accurately depicts God. From the Old Testament some get the impression that God is vengeful and harsh. Just yes, but harsh, no. Our God is an incredible lover. And a mighty warrior who protects us.

How about carrying the words of Zephaniah Chapter 3, Verse 17 in your wallet or purse because it’s worth knowing and remembering forever.

Never despair, never fear, never abandon your joy, God delights in you and, gulp, me.