“The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure it is to have wise children.” Proverbs 23:24 (NLT)
Have you ever thought about how happy your earthly father is when you do good? It may have never occurred to you that he is watching you. I must admit that I never thought that my dad was watching me. But I did notice that he expressed his joy when I obeyed his instructions. He also expressed his disappointment when I didn’t, sometimes in very unpleasant ways. For me, those unpleasant expressions gave me cause to want to give him cause for more joy. He liked that and I certainly liked it better.
When children walk in truth (1John 1:4), it gives earthly fathers, spiritual fathers, and the Heavenly Father cause for joy and pleasure. Think of your spiritual growth up to now. God is happy. Imagine the victories ahead. God joyfully anticipates your obedience. Believe that God is always with you on your spiritual journey from the past into the future. He has been, is now and always will be watching you and gleefully applauding your progress. Surely, it makes him swell with pride when his children walk in truth.
Dear Father of heaven, I glorify you for your mercy and patience with me. Forgive me for all the times I have disappointed you. Grant to me the grace to grow and make you happy. Enable me to give you joy as I live for your glory. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN
Let us praise God for his watchful presence and live for his joy,
Pastor Smith