Freedom Calls

Psalm 149:4 – “The Lord taketh pleasure in his people.”

Salvation and freedom come not by our merits, but through Christ Jesus, in whom God delights in us, His people.

This truth stirs the heart—our Lord finds joy in us, not for our worth, but for His grace. The Holy Spirit kindles this assurance, urging us to live in the warmth of His love. Watchman Nee writes, “God’s joy in us is the strength of our walk” (The Normal Christian Life), calling us to rest in His delight.

The psalmist contrasts the law’s burden, which exposed sin without joy, with the new covenant where God’s pleasure shines. Through Christ’s sacrifice, we’re made His own, justified and adopted. Spurgeon exclaims, “Think of what His love has brought thee—justification, adoption, eternal life! Shall such a love have half our hearts?” The Spirit invites us to respond with wholehearted devotion, reflecting His joy. C.S. Lewis notes, “Joy is the serious business of Heaven” (Letters to Malcolm), reminding us God’s delight is our eternal home. John Bunyan’s pilgrim sang, “My King smiles on me, and my soul is glad” (The Pilgrim’s Progress), echoing the freedom of His favor.

The Spirit empowers us to live as His delight, loving Him fully, shining His grace to others.

As it is written:

• Zephaniah 3:17 – “The Lord thy God… will rejoice over thee with joy…”

• John 15:11 – “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy may remain in you…”

• Romans 8:38-39 – “Neither death nor life… shall separate us from the love of God…”

• Ephesians 2:4-5 – “God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us…”

• 1 John 4:16 – “We have known and believed the love that God hath to us…”