His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the legs of a man, but the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love. (Psalm 147:10, 11 ESV)

What does the Lord God take pleasure in? What pleases him? On this earth we are impressed by power and might, or skill and expertise, or eloquence and creative genius. Not so with God. He is certainly the source of such characteristics. Further, he is glorified if these things are wielded rightly. But he is not impressed by them. This psalm does not mention them as giving him pleasure, or gratification or satisfaction.

Rather, the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love. God takes special notice as we come before his throne and seek his face with reverence. He does not want us to cower in fear of other people, living in subjection to a culture that would now like to “cancel” those who trust in the Bible and the God of the Bible. His Spirit inhabits the praise of those whose only fear is of the one true God. Yes, we tremble at his awesome holiness. We ought to at least!

In addition, he is pleased by our hoping in his steadfast love, his hesed. This is his love that sticks like glue to his covenant people. God takes pleasure in those who know that he keeps his promises and those who live by them. He is pleased to shower daily mercies on those who say, with Jeremiah, The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; … “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him” (see Lamentations 3:19ff.).

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for not only bestowing favor on your people, but for actually taking pleasure in us as we fear you and hope in your steadfast love. Help me to fear the Lord and hope in your promises today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.