In the Bible, “pleased” often signifies a state of satisfaction or favor, particularly in relation to God’s approval of actions, intentions, or creations. For instance, throughout Scriptures, it can denote God’s pleasure in obedience (Proverbs 11:20) or the delight in a particular act of worship (Psalm 147:11).
Scripture
31 And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.
Biblical Definition of “Pleased”
The concept of being “pleased” in the Bible extends beyond mere satisfaction; it encapsulates divine approval and alignment with God’s will. This is evident in passages like Proverbs 16:7, which states, “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Here, the “pleasing” actions not only indicate a favorable status with God but also have transformative effects in the believer’s life, suggesting a harmonious relationship with both God and others. Furthermore, in Philippians 4:18, Paul speaks of the generosity of the Philippians, stating that their gifts are “a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God,” underscoring the idea that acts of kindness and generosity are viewed by God as a source of delight.
Additionally, the concept of being “pleased” can indicate God’s delight in creation and humanity. In Genesis 1:31, after creating the world, God observes, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good,” reflecting satisfaction and approval of His creation. This theme reaches its apex in the New Testament, where Jesus’s baptism is marked by a profound declaration from heaven: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Such verses illustrate that being “pleased” is not just an objective emotion; it signifies a relational dynamic between God and His creation, centered on righteousness, love, and intention that align with divine purpose. Ultimately, to please God is to live in harmony with His will, reflecting His character and love in our lives.
The richness of the term “pleased” in the Bible further manifests in the concept of God’s favor bestowed upon individuals whose actions resonate with His intentions and moral standards. For instance, Hebrews 11:6 highlights that “without faith it is impossible to please God,” conveying that faithfulness is paramount to achieving His approval. Here, “pleased” indicates not only the outcome of one’s trust in God but also the essential relationship between belief and divine favor. This reveals a profound connection where God’s pleasure is contingent upon the believer’s reliance and commitment to Him, emphasizing that genuine faith is a pleasing act in the eyes of the Lord.
Moreover, the idea of being “pleased” can also encompass the notion of divine intervention and joy in response to obedience and righteousness. In Psalm 37:23, it is stated that “the steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and he delights in his way.” This verse suggests that when one’s actions align with the moral framework established by God, it triggers divine delight and guidance. The mutuality of the relationship underscores how pleasing God leads to a life marked by divine direction and fulfillment. Thus, the biblical theme of “pleased” intricately weaves together elements of faith, obedience, and divine relationship, each enriching our understanding of how to live in ways that bring joy to the Creator.
Divine Approval and Favor
In the biblical context, being “pleased” often signifies a state of divine approval or favor. This concept is rooted in the idea that God expresses satisfaction with certain actions, behaviors, or conditions. When individuals or communities align their lives with God’s will, they are said to bring pleasure to Him, which can lead to blessings and positive outcomes. This divine approval is not merely about meeting expectations but reflects a deeper relationship characterized by trust, obedience, and love.
Joy and Contentment
The term “pleased” also conveys a sense of joy and contentment, both in human relationships and in the context of God’s creation. When God looks upon His creation and sees it as “good,” it reflects a profound sense of joy and fulfillment. Similarly, when individuals experience moments of harmony, love, and righteousness, they often feel a sense of pleasure that resonates with the divine joy. This aspect emphasizes the emotional and relational dimensions of being pleased, highlighting the importance of joy in the life of faith.
Fulfillment of Purpose
Another broader meaning of “pleased” in the Bible relates to the fulfillment of purpose and destiny. When individuals or groups act in accordance with their God-given purpose, they often experience a sense of being pleased, both from a divine perspective and within themselves. This fulfillment is seen as aligning one’s life with God’s intentions, leading to a deeper sense of meaning and satisfaction. It underscores the idea that true pleasure comes from living out one’s calling and contributing to the greater good as intended by God.
How to Seek Divine Approval in Your Christian Walk
Seeking divine approval in your Christian walk is a deeply personal journey that requires both introspection and action. Start by cultivating a genuine relationship with God through prayer and scripture; these are your lifelines to understanding His will and character. Reflect on your daily choices and ask yourself if they align with the teachings of Christ—are you showing love, kindness, and humility in your interactions? Remember, it’s not about perfection but about progress; God delights in a heart that seeks Him earnestly. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can encourage and challenge you, and don’t shy away from moments of vulnerability where you can share your struggles and victories. Ultimately, divine approval comes from a heart that desires to honor God in all things, so let your actions be a reflection of His love and grace in your life.
Bible References to “Pleased” in Scripture:
Numbers 24:1: 24 When Balaam saw that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel, he did not go, as at other times, to look for omens, but set his face toward the wilderness.
1 Kings 3:10-14: 10 It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this.
11 And God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right,
12 behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you.
13 I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that no other king shall compare with you, all your days.
14 And if you will walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.
Psalm 147:10-11: 10 His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the legs of a man;
11 But the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.
Proverbs 16:7: 7 When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Isaiah 42:1-4: 1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations.
2 He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice,
or make it heard in the street;
3 a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice.
4 He will not grow faint or be discouraged
till he has established justice in the earth;
and the coastlands wait for his law.
Matthew 3:16-17: 16 And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him;
17 and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
Matthew 12:18-21: 18 “Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved with whom my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.”
19 He will not quarrel or cry aloud, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets;
20 a bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory;
21 and in his name the Gentiles will hope.”
Matthew 17:5: 5 He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”
Luke 3:21-22: 21 Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened,
3:22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
John 8:28-29: 28 So Jesus said to them, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me.
29 And he who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to him.
Romans 8:7-8: 7 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot.
8 Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
1 Corinthians 1:21: 21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.
Galatians 1:15-16: 15 But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace,
16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone;
Colossians 1:19-20: 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell,
20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
1 Thessalonians 2:4: 4 but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts.
Hebrews 11:5-6: By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God.
6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
2 Peter 1:16-18: 16 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
17 For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,”
We ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.