Psalm 147:11 (ESV)
“The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.”
DEVOTIONAL
This verse is a quiet yet profound window into the heart of God. It tells us something astonishing: the Lord, the Almighty Creator of heaven and earth, takes pleasure—delight—in His people. Not because they are mighty, or impressive, or successful in worldly terms. No, He delights in those who fear Him—those who revere Him, stand in awe of His holiness, and bow their hearts before Him. He takes pleasure in those who hope in His steadfast love—who lean not on their own strength or goodness, but trust entirely in His mercy and covenant faithfulness.
So much of our world tells us that value must be earned, that delight is reserved for the exceptional. But the gospel turns that on its head. God’s delight rests not on your perfection, but on your posture before Him. He rejoices in the soul that trembles at His Word and clings to Christ alone for salvation.
To fear the Lord is not to cower in dread, but to live with a deep, reverent awareness of who He is—and to respond with humble trust. To hope in His steadfast love is to rest your weary heart on the sure promises of the cross: that in Christ, God’s love for you is unshakable, enduring, and true.
This is not a distant or begrudging love. It is the joy-filled affection of a Father who, through Jesus, calls you His own. Even in your weakness, even when faith feels like a flickering flame, He delights in you—not because of who you are, but because of who He is.
So today, come before Him with reverent joy. Trust in His unfailing love. You are not forgotten. You are not merely tolerated. You are delighted in.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to fear You rightly—to stand in awe of Your holiness and mercy. Help me to place all my hope in Your steadfast love, not in my own strength. Thank You that in Christ, You take pleasure in me. May my heart rest in that truth today. Amen.