Delight

Confident of the words he wrote, the psalmist wrote "the LORD takes delight in his people." 

Back up and read that again. 

Now, let that sink in.

In the context of that phrase (Psalm 149), the delight that God takes centers on the singing, praising, and dancing that His people offer to Him.  Certainly, such worship stirs the delight of our Lord.  He is pleased, also, with other actions.  The Bible tells us that God takes pleasure . . .

- in the well-being of His servants (Psalm 35:27)
- in broken and contrite hearts (Psalm 51:17)
- in those who fear (respect) Him (Psalm 147:11)
- in me (Psalm 18:19)

The most well-known verse in Scripture begins with "For God so loved." 

God loves and delights.

Notice the pair.  The phrase lifts the load a bit - "You're called to love people.  That doesn't mean you have to like them."  The callousness of such a statement shocks; yet, it comes in handy when dealing with a difficult person.

Remember.  God loves and delights.  That means that while God loves us, He likes us as well.  He likes us even when we are difficult people.  Truly amazing grace.

#ordinarylives