In what ways can we glorify God in our daily actions and decisions? Setting the Scene “Therefore when Judas had gone out, Jesus said, ‘Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him.’” (John 13:31) In the Upper Room, just after Judas departs to betray Him, Jesus speaks of glory—glory unveiled in His obedience, suffering, and ultimate victory. If His surrender glorifies the Father, our everyday obedience can echo that same glory. What “glorified” Means Here • Jesus’ perfect obedience puts the Father’s character on display. • The cross will reveal God’s justice, mercy, and love simultaneously. • Glory flows from self-giving love, not self-promotion. Inviting God’s Glory into Daily Life 1. Reflect Christ in our motives • 1 Corinthians 10:31—“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” • Ask, “Will this choice showcase God’s worth or my own?” • Choose what honors His standards, even when no one is watching. 2. Walk in loving obedience • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Obedience is practical worship: forgiving, serving, telling truth, guarding purity. • Small acts done God’s way carry eternal weight. 3. Serve with humble sacrifice • John 13:14—Jesus washing feet models servant-hearted leadership. • Seek unnoticed tasks: cleaning, listening, sharing resources. • Humility shifts glory from self to God (James 4:10). 4. Speak words that build up • Ephesians 4:29—“Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up.” • Replace gossip and complaint with encouragement and truth. • Pray before speaking; silence can glorify God, too. 5. Display joy in suffering • 1 Peter 4:12-13—Trials share in Christ’s sufferings “so that you may rejoice with great joy when His glory is revealed.” • Respond to hardship with faith, showing the sufficiency of Christ. • Others see His strength made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). 6. Steward work and resources faithfully • Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” • Excellence at the office, honesty in finances, and generosity all spotlight His provision. • Budget, schedule, and goals become platforms for praise. 7. Live visibly different • Matthew 5:16—“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • Distinct choices—media, relationships, ethics—provoke questions that point to Jesus. • Consistency over time authenticates the message. Bringing It Together Jesus’ declaration in John 13:31 anchors glory in obedient love. As we echo His attitude—submitting our desires, serving others, speaking life, persevering through trials—our ordinary moments become living testimonies that magnify the Father. |
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