The concept of the pleasure of God is a profound theme woven throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the divine will, purpose, and delight in creation, redemption, and the unfolding of His eternal plan. God's pleasure is not arbitrary but is deeply rooted in His character, holiness, and love.

Creation and God's Pleasure

The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God's pleasure is evident. In Genesis 1, after each act of creation, God saw that it was good. This repeated affirmation indicates His satisfaction and delight in His handiwork. Psalm 104:31 echoes this sentiment: "May the glory of the LORD endure forever; may the LORD rejoice in His works." God's pleasure in creation is not merely in its existence but in its reflection of His glory and order.

God's Pleasure in His People

God's pleasure is also manifest in His relationship with His people. Deuteronomy 10:15 states, "Yet the LORD has set His affection on your fathers and loved them, and He has chosen you, their descendants, above all the peoples, as it is today." This choice is not based on human merit but on God's sovereign will and pleasure. Similarly, in Isaiah 62:4 , God expresses His delight in His people: "No longer will you be called Forsaken, nor your land named Desolate; but you will be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the LORD will take delight in you, and your land will be married."

The Pleasure of God in Redemption

The pleasure of God is central to the narrative of redemption. Isaiah 53:10 reveals the mysterious yet profound pleasure of God in the suffering of the Messiah: "Yet it was the LORD’s will to crush Him and to cause Him to suffer, and when His soul is made a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in His hand." This passage highlights the divine pleasure in the redemptive work of Christ, which brings about the salvation of many.

God's Pleasure in Righteousness and Justice

God's pleasure is also associated with righteousness and justice. Psalm 147:10-11 declares, "He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. The LORD is pleased with those who fear Him, who hope in His loving devotion." God's pleasure is not in human strength or achievements but in those who live in reverence and trust in Him. Proverbs 11:20 further states, "The LORD detests those with perverse hearts, but He delights in those whose ways are blameless."

The Pleasure of God in His Sovereign Will

The pleasure of God is ultimately tied to His sovereign will and purpose. Ephesians 1:5 speaks of God's predestining work: "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This pleasure is not capricious but is part of the divine plan that encompasses all of history and creation. Philippians 2:13 also affirms, "For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure."

Conclusion

The pleasure of God is a multifaceted theme that reveals His character, purposes, and relationship with creation. It is a pleasure that encompasses creation, redemption, righteousness, and His sovereign will, inviting believers to align their lives with His divine purposes.