God's Children Are to Please Him (1 Thessalonians 4:1)
Introduction:
1. In this verse a strong appeal is given to God's children -- pleasing God is to be a priority. 2. In the family, children who appreciate their parents will want to please them. 3. From a spiritual perspective, appreciation for God will lead His children to please Him. 4. In our lesson we are studying a number of passages that relate to the principle that "God's children are to please Him." 5. The first point we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. JESUS PLEASED THE FATHER
A. In John 8:29b Jesus said, "I do always those things that please Him." B. This assured Jesus that the Father was with Him (John 8:29a). C. On 2 occasions the Father said that Jesus pleased Him (Matthew 3:17; 17:5). II. THE LORD'S PEOPLE ARE TO FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE
A. Colossians 1:10 B. 1 Thessalonians 4:1 C. 1 John 3:22 D. Hebrews 11:6 1. Faith is essential for pleasing God -- we cannot please Him without faith. 2. The faith that pleases God consists of believing that: a. God exists b. God rewards those who diligently seek Him. E. To help us in developing faith that pleases God, . . . III. LET US EXAMINE PSALM 19
A. (vs.1-6) David presented evidence that will lead us to believe that God exists. 1. Vs.1 mentions the heavens and the firmament -- God's glory is declared by the heavens, and the firmament [sky above the earth] shows His handiwork. 2. In addition to the heavens and the firmament, David mentioned the regular passing of day and night, and the sun's effect upon everything on the earth. 3. These things have something to say to us. a. What they say cannot be heard with the ears, but it can be heard with the heart. b. What they say can be heard in any language. 4. They tell us that: a. someone created them b. their creator is powerful and intelligent. 5. (Romans 1:20) Paul used this line of reasoning to show that "the invisible things of God" ["His eternal power and Godhead"] are revealed by the visible things of the world. 6. Faith that pleases God includes belief that God exists. 7. As we listen to the message of Creation, evidence is presented that will lead us to believe that there is a God in heaven. B. (vs.7-11) David turned to his attention to God's Word that teaches us how to diligently seek Him. 1. David referred to God's Word as "the law of the Lord,""the testimony of the Lord,""the statutes of the Lord,""the commandment of the Lord," and "the judgments of the Lord." 2. David described God's Word as being "perfect,""sure,""right,""pure," and "true and righteous altogether." 3. David listed the benefits of God's Word -- it converts [restores] the soul, it makes the simple wise, it causes the heart to rejoice, it enlightens the eyes, and it provides warnings. 4. (vs.10-11) David emphasized the value of God's Word. a. It is more precious than fine gold and sweeter than honey from the comb. b. Those who keep God's Word will receive a great reward. 5. As we listen to the God's Word, we learn how to come to God, we learn how to please Him, and we learn about the reward He provides. C. (vs.12-14) David showed how he endeavored to please God. 1. (vs.12) He asked for understanding of his errors and cleansing from sin. 2. (vs.13) He asked for help in refraining from presumptuous sins so he could remain upright and innocent. 3. (vs.14) He requested that his words and the meditation of his heart to be acceptable in God's sight (Psalm 139:23-24). Conclusion:
1. According to Hebrews 11:6, faith is essential for pleasing God. 2. To help us properly develop faith, let us apply the principles revealed in Psalm 19. 3. Let us listen to the message of Creation, the message of the Word, and the message of a man who sought to diligently please God.
