by Steve Higginbotham
By definition, the word “delight” means “to have a high degree of gratification, joy, and extreme satisfaction. Something that gives great pleasure.” I believe it is true that the character of a man can be measured by the things in which he delights.
The Bible records for us the delights of several biblical characters and God, Himself. For instance:
It was said that Jehoshapat delighted in the ways of the Lord (2 Chronicles 17:6). The people in the days of Nehemiah delighted in the great goodness of God (Nehemiah
9:25). Job delighted in God (Job 22:26). The upright man delights in the law of the Lord (Psalm 1:2). Godly men delight in peace (Psalm 37:11). God delights in man (Psalm 16:3) and He also delights in extending mercy unto man
(Micah 7:18).
There is also the other side of this picture. Not everyone delights in what is good and pleasing to God. The Bible tells us that
the wicked delight in lies (Psalm 62:4), war (Psalm 68:30), scorning (Proverbs 1:20), perversity (Proverbs 2:14), and abominations (Isaiah 66:3).
Do you see how one’s delights can easily reveal the true character of a man? There is quite a contrast between the delights of a righteous man and the delights of an unrighteous man.
Let me ask you – in what do you delight more?
Discovering the sins of another person or helping to cover the sins of another person? A good church fuss, or a church existing in peace? Giving a person just what they deserve or being gracious and merciful? Worshiping and studying with the saints or watching television?
Take a good look at the things in which you delight, and while you’re looking, take a look at your character as well. You see, your delights and your character travel together, and when you see one, you will most certainly see the other.