Do we give God joy?

TODAY’S PROVERB: Whoever loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. Proverbs 29:3

Okay, I love this proverb. At least the first part.

I always knew that my dad loved me, but I’ve wondered over the years how much joy I brought him. Since I struggled with a wide range of issues from not so great grades in school to poor decisions that meant he had to rescue me a few too many times, I’m sure he questioned whether or not I’d survive adolescence and the first years of marriage.

When did I begin giving him joy? The memory that stands out for me was when he and mom came out for a visit when we lived in Seattle. Dad could probably count on one hand the number of vacations he’d ever taken. This trip to see us was one of them.

What I remember is the whole time he visited, he smiled. And it wasn’t simply that he was on a holiday. I think he was in the moment of enjoying my husband and me as adults. He didn’t have the same worries he had had with me as a child. He enjoyed the conversations, activities, knowing we were relatively stable as a family. He could relax and enjoy the rewards of being a good father.

How similar this is to our Heavenly Father. In our early years as His followers, we made a lot of mistakes — before we became followers, even more. He had to rescue us more times than we probably ever realized. And through it all, He loves us.

But, today, as wiser, more mature children, does He enjoy us?

I want that, don’t you? I like picturing Him enjoying the moments when I make wise decisions. Giving me a “spiritual” fist bump when I finally understand a concept.

We all know we can’t earn His love — He gives that to us freely. But, I can give Him joy. And I want to do that as often as I can. How about you?

May we give Him joy, my friends.

Proverbs 29:3 Tree of Life Bible Society, Tree of Life Version – TLV, #tlvbible, #tlvproverbs