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If you could look at your life the way an outside observer would, what would you conclude that you value? Our calendars, bank statements, and to-do lists often reveal more than we intend. They might expose priorities that are uncomfortable to face. Perhaps you would discover that your mind is set more on the things of man than on the things of God.
An important part of Christian living is learning to bring our values into alignment with God’s. Those who have received the mercy of Christ are given the privilege of discerning what is pleasing to Him (Rom. 12:2). Having been raised with Christ, we are to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things (Col. 3:2). As citizens of His kingdom, we are called to treasure what He treasures (Matt. 6:20–21).
Yet these truths often confront us. Why? Because our values are not naturally aligned with God’s. We do not instinctively prize what He prizes. The prophet Jeremiah rebuked God’s people for boasting in earthly wisdom, might, and riches. But God said that these were not things He delighted in (Jer. 9:23–24).
Thankfully, God has not left us guessing. He has plainly told us what He values. Consider these five things that God highly esteems.
The first is a broken and contrite heart (Ps. 51:16–17). God does not receive the service of the proud, but He welcomes the one who confesses and repents. Such brokenness is, as older writers said, the “sacrifice of sacrifices,” and it is pleasing to God.
The second is a loving knowledge of Him. “I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings” (Hos. 6:6). God is not interested in outward routines that lack loving relationship. He delights in people who know Him personally and love Him sincerely in Jesus Christ.
The third is true worship. Jesus told the Samaritan woman that the Father is seeking those who will worship Him in spirit and truth (John 4:23). God delights when His people gather to give Him the praise He deserves in the way that He has appointed in the Bible.
The fourth is practical holiness. While we are often drawn to outward appearance, Scripture teaches that a holy heart is very precious in God’s sight (1 Peter 3:4). This kind of holiness is lasting and unfading and is honored in the presence of God.
The fifth is mercy and justice. “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Mic. 6:8). Nowhere in our daily relationships do we reflect Christ more clearly in our lives than when we live in humility, mercy, and righteousness.
Return, then, to the outside observer. What would your life reveal? Would it show that you value what God values? Every Christian is a work in progress. But His grace toward us is not in vain as He, by the Spirit, reshapes our lives to delight in the delights of God.