This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

1 Timothy 2:3-4 (NIV)

I like these verses from 1 Timothy for a couple of reasons. First, they tell us something that pleases God.

We recently had Father’s Day in the United States, and many of us chose that day to celebrate our fathers. A question that comes to my mind each Father’s Day is, what do I get my Dad? We want to please our Father in Heaven. I might often be scratching my head about how to please my Dad; we don’t have to be that way with our Father in Heaven. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 tells us how God is pleased.

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

We read elsewhere in Hebrews that faith pleases God. Praying for others pleases God. This includes those in authority.

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.

Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

Another way to please God is through our giving.

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)

And, of course, it’s pleasing to him when we are obedient and do what He wants to do.

“If you love me, keep my commands.”

John 14:15 (NIV)

The other thing I like about 1 Timothy 2:3-4 is that it clarifies God’s stance on salvation. God “wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” This verse isn’t in favor of universal salvation. In fact, it’s actually quite clear that to be saved, people need to know the truth. This truth is explained in the following two verses.

For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time.

1 Timothy 2:5-6 (NIV)

So there we have it. Some ways to please God and his stance on salvation. As to what to get your Dad for Father’s Day, well, we have a whole year until next Father’s Day to figure that out!

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