Jeremiah 9:23-24 says, "Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom, or the strong man boast of his strength, or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight" (NIV).

This scripture encourages us not to take pride in our own achievements but to find our true joy in knowing and understanding God. This principle is echoed in Psalm 37:4, which says, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart" (NIV). By delighting in God, we align ourselves with His values and desires, which include kindness, justice, and righteousness.

As we seek to live in accordance with God's delights, we find that our desires begin to align with His will. This alignment brings joy to God and fulfills our deepest longings, as He takes pleasure in our faith and devotion. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" (NIV). Our faith and pursuit of God bring Him great pleasure, and He rewards our diligent seeking.

Additionally, Matthew 6:33 reinforces this by saying, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (NIV). When we prioritize God's kingdom and righteousness, we align ourselves with His purposes, and He provides for our needs. This verse ties into the broader theme of living a life that pleases God by prioritizing His will over our own desires.

Furthermore, Matthew 6:4, 6, and 18 emphasize the importance of humility in our spiritual practices: "Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (NIV). Whether it is giving, praying, or fasting, doing these acts in secret keeps our focus on God rather than seeking human praise. This humility aligns with Jeremiah 9:23-24, where boasting in our own wisdom, strength, or riches is discouraged. Instead, we are to boast in our understanding and knowledge of God.

Romans 14:17 adds another layer by describing the kingdom of God as "righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit" (NIV). This verse reminds us that the essence of God's kingdom is found in spiritual virtues rather than material possessions.

In summary, a life that pleases God is one that prioritizes knowing Him, aligning with His will, and seeking His kingdom. Our faith, humility, and delight in God not only bring Him joy but also fulfill our deepest desires as He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. As we grow in our relationship with God, we reflect His character on earth, exercising kindness, justice, and righteousness, which are the things He delights in.

Scriptures Used

1. Jeremiah 9:23-24 (NIV): "Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom, or the strong man boast of his strength, or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight."
2. Psalm 37:4 (NIV): "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart."
3. Hebrews 11:6 (NIV): "And without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."
4. Matthew 6:33 (NIV): "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
5. Matthew 6:4, 6, 18 (NIV): "Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
6. Romans 14:17 (NIV): "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit."