“….do all to the glory of God”.- 1 Cor. 10:31
It is easy enough to state this as our purpose, which it is, but it is another thing to actually make this our pursuit. Are we actually doing what we are declaring to be our purpose, or are we living a lie? That’s the question. Life is complex and can be very confusing. We run into questions everywhere, leaving us wondering “What shall / should I do?” Unfortunately some say, “I will do as I please”. Others might say, “I’ll do what is popular, profitable, or pleasurable”. We ought to do what is proper – “to the glory of God”.
When faced with a question about an activity some say, ” I don’t see any harm in it”. But the absence of harm isn’t the only thing that should be considered. The real issue is this–” Is there any glory for God in it?” It is in the light of that question that we should make our decisions. If an activity is going to hinder us from glorifying God we should cease and desist. It isn’t worth it. It is God’s glory that gives value to our activities — whether we are preaching or taking a much needed nap, praying or playing catch with our kids.
Certain things might be harmless in and of themselves, but they become an hindrance when they keep us from that which glorifies God. In other words, sinless things can become sinful. It would be no violation of the law to run a race in winter clothing, or with a pack on your back and boots, but it would impede your progress and cause you to lose– making it unwise. The Bible is perfectly clear about the fact that our main purpose is to glorify God, so don’t allow anything to stop you from it.
In deciding about doubtful issues, John Wesley’s mother gave him this wise advice: “If you wish to determine the lawfulness of a pleasure, follow this rule: Whatever weakens your reason, impairs the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense of God, or takes away the relish of spiritual things; whatever increases the authority of your body over your mind, that thing is sin”. I doubt that any theologian ever said it better! – HDS
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
