Amusements or Worldly Pleasures—found sixty-nine times in sixty-eight verses

Variations: pleasure, pleasures

First usage: Genesis 18:12 (pleasure)

Last usage: Revelation 4:11 (pleasure)

Defined: As a noun, pleasure means the condition of enjoyment. This study focuses upon the things that bring enjoyment to one’s life.

Interesting fact: Mankind spends an ever increasing amount of time, money, and strength seeking pleasure, but the true “pleasures” are found at God the Father’s right hand (Psalm 16:11). By comparing scripture with scripture, we understand the true pleasures one should seek are found in the person of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:25, 33, 34).

Bible study tip: The Lord often compares the earthly to that which is heavenly. Sometimes the comparisons are found in rapid succession, but at other times the comparisons are found over a broader portion of scripture. First Corinthians chapter 15 offers an example of rapid succession comparisons, especially in verses forty-two through forty-four. This section contrasts the saint’s present earthly body to his future heavenly body. These distinctions are noted by the rotating phrases of “it is sown” and “it is raised.” Here are the contrasts: “It is sown” in corruption (1 Corinthians 15:42), “it is raised” in incorruption (1 Corinthians 15:42); “It is sown” in dishonour (1 Corinthians 15:43), “it is raised” in glory (1 Corinthians 15:43); “it is sown” in weakness (1 Corinthians 15:43), “it is raised” in power (1 Corinthians 15:43); “It is sown” a natural body (1 Corinthians 15:44), “it is raised” a spiritual body (1 Corinthians 15:44).

Sunday, Day 1—Church Day (no devotional)

Monday, Day 2—He That Loveth Pleasure

Tuesday, Day 3—Thou That Art Given to Pleasure

Wednesday, Day 4—Church Night (no devotional)

Thursday, Day 5—Choked with Cares, Riches, and Pleasures

Friday, Day 6—Loving Pleasures More than God

Saturday, Day 7—A Servant to Pleasure

Day 1: Church Day

1 Chronicles 29:17 I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.