Daily Devotional
What Gladdens God’s Heart?
“‘And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.”
Luke 15:23-24
October 3, 2021
Ponder This
What brings the Father joy? What makes joy in heaven? What burdens the Father’s heart? A son away from Him. What gladdens the Father’s heart? Listen. Jesus said, “Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10).
I used to think that meant the angels rejoiced, and I suppose they do, but that’s not what that verse means. It doesn’t say there’s joy among the angels. It says there’s joy in the presence of the angels. It’s the Lord who rejoices when a sinner comes home. There’s joy in the presence of the angels, just as there was joy when this prodigal son came home. What gives the Father joy? Sinners coming home. What will give you joy? Psalm 126:6 says, “He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Do you want joy? If you want the Father’s joy, you’ve got to share the Father’s concern for those who are lost.
- How much would you say you are burdened for those who don’t yet know God?
- How does your level of concern for those who are lost influence the way you interact with them each day?
Practice This
Spend time today asking God to give you a burden that will lead you to action for someone who does not yet know Him.
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
Front Porch Moments by Gayle Foster
WITH KEY INSIGHTS FROM HER FATHER, ADRIAN ROGERS
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”
