Perceiving your purpose in life is one thing, pursuing it is another. It’s not always as easy as you might think. While God clearly directs us in many matters, in others He allows us to decide (1 Cor. 7:39}– so long as we don’t violate the principles of God’s Word. Our text reveals what should be the determining factor in every decision we make– will it glorify God? It is not for us to decide how we shall live. We are to live in obedience to God and that requires us to live for the glory of God. Any other pursuit is a waste.
Too often, when faced with a decision, we ask the wrong questions. Is there any profit in it? Is there any harm in it? The real question should be “will it glorify God?” If it doesn’t we should refrain. There are a lot of what we call “gray areas” in life–areas where it is not apparent that it is right or wrong, questionable things. Our response to those are very telling as to our character. Just because it doesn’t break a commandment that doesn’t mean we should do it. Even sinless things can become sinful. So rather than get lost in the maze of questions as to whether our choice is right or wrong we should ask ourselves “will it bring glory to God?” If it does that’s all that matters, because that’s what matters most. If it doesn’t we should avoid it like the plague. No good can come from doing that which fails to bring glory to God. When in doubt don’t. “Do all to the glory of God“—that makes the smallest thing of major importance.–HDS
