I first heard this statement a few days ago and was taken aback by my reaction to it. Have you ever heard anyone say “You make God happy”? What is your initial reaction to that statement?
I think it’s difficult for us to grasp what that statement actually means. Religion will tell you that God is mad at you and needs to be pleased by all the different “good” things we do for Him or in His name.
Many religions teach that God cannot be pleased so it’s a “be a good person and hope for the best” kind of life we live. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Although this statement “You make God happy” shocked me at first, I must say that I totally believe it. You make God happy! Repeat after me, “I make God happy.”
How can this be, you might ask?
The Bible says that if anyone has put his or her faith completely in Jesus Christ, they become a new person. That means that old way of life is left behind and they receive a fresh start. So technically, when God looks at us, He sees us as who we are because of what Jesus did for us.
That takes the pressure off, doesn’t it? It’s no longer about how “good” or “bad” we are, it’s about how good and powerful the work is that Jesus does in our lives.
It’s not what we do that makes God happy, it’s who we belong to that makes Him happy. And when we believe in and follow after Jesus, we belong to God, regardless of what our past has held. That is awesome news!
I really like this verse found in the Bible in Ephesians 2:10. It says:
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Let that sink in for a moment… you are God’s masterpiece. Wow! That means you are unique, you are valuable, and you are wanted.
If we truly grab a hold of this awesome truth, it should make a difference in our lives. When we realise we are God’s masterpiece it will:
1. Compel us to live lives that please Him: In response to all God has done for us, we are compelled to change and grow and live in a way that pleases God.
2. Make us realise we have a part to play: I love the end of that verse where it says, “…so that we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” God has planned some awesome things for us to do and be a part of. Perhaps you can take some time to pray and read the Bible and ask God to show you the plans He has for you. Or perhaps you can visit a great church near you and talk to someone there.
If you don’t yet have your own relationship with God, you don’t have to stay that way. Click on the link below or on the pop up to find out how you can know Him for yourself.