“In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.” (Ephesians 1:13–14)
Our supreme purpose and highest joy is found in glorifying God. All of salvation history is for the praise of his glory. Too often we invert this, seeking to use God for our own glory and purposes. But we exist for him, not vice versa. We find purpose and meaning in life when we align our purposes with his – to make disciples of Jesus Christ, be ambassadors of reconciliation, nourish unity in the church, proclaim the gospel in word and deed, and invite all people to worship the Creator. Our lives radiate God’s glory as we allow the Spirit to produce his fruit in us – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. All we do and say can reflect our Father in heaven when done in dependence on him. The Westminster Catechism rightly summarizes our chief purpose as to “glorify God and enjoy him forever.” Enjoy the freedom of living for your purpose, that is, living for his glory.
Questions:
- What areas of your life are not currently glorifying God?
- How can you actively glorify God with your words and actions this week?
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