Feeling God’s Pleasure

The 1981 movie, Chariots of Fire, is based on the 1924 Olympics and two prominent runners—Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams. Eric Liddell was a devout Christian who represented Scotland. He was a missionary, and his sister believed he should give up the sport to preach. In one conversation with his sister Liddell says, “I believe God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.”

When I first saw the movie, I was running long distances preparing to run a marathon (26.2 miles) in Munich. Although God did not make me fast, once I settled into an even pace after a couple of miles, I too felt “His pleasure” as I ran. 

This week I had the privilege of leading two Bible Studies, one at the Cadence headquarters and the other for a small group that Debbie and I have been part of for the last nine months. The Bible studies were very different. The Bible study at Cadence was taught to devoted Christian workers, and I used a variety of Bible passages to illustrate how the Bible gives clear instructions on habits that Christians should practice, and how modern science has “discovered” that these habits lead to good mental health. 

Our small group from church consists of devout Christians who are in their late 30s, have small children, and live very busy, stressed lives. At this study we talked about one verse, 2 Corinthians 3:18, and how meditating on one verse every day for a week can lead to a transformed life.

What these two Bible studies have in common is that, while teaching them, I was totally present in the conversation and I felt “His pleasure.” I have not taught a Bible Study since February and it felt good to teach again. 

At first glance, running long distances and teaching Bible studies have nothing in common, but in doing  both of them I felt the presence of God. I also feel that presence when I am with good friends and involved in meaningful conversations. I feel His pleasure when I am enjoying a good meal. I almost hear

Him say, “I made this for you. I am so glad you are enjoying it.”

I think Liddell’s sister made the mistake of thinking you can only feel God’s pleasure when you are engaged in Christian work. I think we can feel God’s pleasure any time we are enjoying the work He has given us to do, or gifts He has given us. God is giving us gifts all the time; gifts of food, friends, work, and His word.

It is easy to miss the joy that comes from His presence because we are in a hurry, distracted, avoiding a difficult task, or comparing ourselves to others, to name a few.  I think God is like a good parent who has found the perfect birthday gift for their child and can’t wait to watch them open the gift and feel their pleasure.

I think we all have the opportunity to feel His pleasure wherever you are and whatever stage of life you are in. However, it will require that you slow down, think of Him, and let yourself feel His pleasure. 

I pray that this week, wherever you are and whatever you happen to be doing, you slow down, reflect, and allow yourself to enjoy the feeling of His pleasure.