“Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”—1 Corinthians 10:31
Consider Paul’s exhortation for a moment: “whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Most of us would confess that seeking God’s glory is not the default setting of our earthly motivations. It is aspirational, perhaps for some, yet even seemingly spiritual ideals can be rooted in the thorny soil of self. The great reformer, Martin Luther, observed that our sin nature is so deeply curved in on itself that it bends even the best gifts of God towards itself and it seeks all things, even God, for its own sake. This is not God’s design for us; in fact, it is antithetical to our purpose in His creation as spoken through His prophet, Isaiah: “Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth—everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.”1 Then today, let us contemplate our noble purpose, glorifying God . . .
In our forgiveness. “For your name’s sake, O Lord, pardon my guilt, for it is great.” (Psalm 25:11)
In our faith. “In this you rejoice . . . so that the tested genuineness of your faith . . . may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:6-7)
In our outreach. “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:6)
In our spiritual gifts. “If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 4:11)
In our salvation. “He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.” (2 Timothy 1:9)
In our unity in Christ. “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 15:5-6)
In our gratitude. “The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me.” (Psalm 50:23)
And through all of these, our fruitfulness. “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” (John 15:8)
God’s glory is our purpose. He himself is our focal point. He is where we are going. He is deserving of all glory, now and forever.
“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.”2 Yes, Lord, for you are worthy. Amen.
1 Isaiah 43:6-7 NIV, emphasis added
2 Psalm 29:2 NIV
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