In what ways can we ensure our actions glorify God as David's did? Anchored in the Text 1 Chronicles 14:17 — “And David’s fame spread throughout every land, and the LORD made all nations fear him.” Notice what the verse does and does not say: • David’s reputation grew, but it was the LORD who made the nations stand in awe. • God’s glory was the driving force behind David’s success. Below are practical ways to mirror David’s God-glorifying pattern. Seek the LORD Before You Move • 1 Chronicles 14:10, 14 — Twice “David inquired of God.” • Proverbs 3:5-6 — “In all your ways acknowledge Him.” • Regularly ask, “Lord, what do You want here?” before decisions, projects, even conversations. Obey Promptly and Precisely • 1 Chronicles 14:16 — “So David did as God commanded him.” • Luke 6:46 — Calling Jesus “Lord” rings hollow without obedience. • Partial obedience steals glory from God; full obedience showcases His wisdom. Publicly Credit God for Every Victory • 1 Chronicles 14:11 — David named the battlefield “Baal-perazim,” memorializing God’s breakthrough. • Psalm 115:1 — “Not to us, O LORD… but to Your name be the glory.” • Speak openly about what God has done. Testimony redirects applause heavenward. Cultivate a Lifestyle of Worship • David immediately brought the ark to Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 15–16). His victories led to worship, not self-promotion. • Psalm 34:3 — “Magnify the LORD with me.” • Make praise your reflex: songs in the car, gratitude at the table, Scripture on your lips. Live So God’s Reputation, Not Yours, Advances • 1 Corinthians 10:31 — “Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” • Matthew 5:16 — Good deeds are meant to “glorify your Father in heaven.” • Measure success by whether people think more highly of God after interacting with you. Putting It into Practice 1. Begin each day with intentional surrender: “Father, guide my steps.” 2. Pause and pray before key actions; listen for biblical principles that apply. 3. When success comes, say out loud what God did; write it down, post it, share it. 4. Schedule regular times of worship—both private and corporate—so praise shapes your mindset. 5. Evaluate plans and accomplishments with this filter: “Did this make God look great?” Adjust whatever distracts from His glory. David’s story shows that when we depend on God, obey Him, and exalt His name, He does the astonishing—and His glory, not ours, shines brightest. |