How can we live to the "praise of His glory" today? The Promise and Purpose Behind Ephesians 1:14 “who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory.” – Ephesians 1:14 • The Holy Spirit is God’s down payment guaranteeing everything He has promised. • That guarantee is given for one clear goal: that our lives and final redemption resound “to the praise of His glory.” • Salvation is not merely about escaping judgment; it is designed to spotlight God’s character and worth right now and forever. What Does “Praise of His Glory” Mean? • Praise – open declaration of God’s excellence. • His – the focus is never on us but on Him. • Glory – the public display of His holiness, power, wisdom, love, and faithfulness. When we live “to the praise of His glory,” our choices, words, and attitudes become living billboards pointing people to God’s greatness. Daily Pathways to Live for His Glory 1. Celebrate His ownership • “Know that the LORD is God. It is He who has made us, and we are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.” – Psalm 100:3 • Remembering we are “God’s possession” frees us from self-promotion. 2. Aim every action God-ward • “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31 • Routine tasks become worship when we consciously dedicate them to Him. 3. Reflect Christ’s light in conduct • “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 • Kindness, integrity, and service are visible echoes of God’s character. 4. Speak of His greatness • “With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the LORD; in the midst of many I will praise Him.” – Psalm 109:30 • Naturally weave testimonies of His faithfulness into conversation. 5. Bear spiritual fruit • “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and prove to be My disciples.” – John 15:8 • Love, joy, peace, and the rest of the Spirit’s fruit showcase His transforming power. 6. Offer your body in worship • “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual service of worship.” – Romans 12:1 • Purity, healthy habits, and surrendered schedules preach louder than slogans. 7. Endure trials with hope • “These have come so that the proven character of your faith may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” – 1 Peter 1:6-7 • Trust in suffering puts God’s worth on display before a watching world. Guarding Against Glory-Thieves • Pride – trying to share the stage with God (Isaiah 42:8). • Fear of people – valuing human approval over divine applause (John 12:43). • Compromise – diluting truth for comfort or popularity (James 4:4). • Neglect – forgetting daily dependence on the Spirit (Galatians 3:3). Fuel for a God-Exalting Life • Scripture Saturation – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” – Colossians 3:16 • Spirit Reliance – “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” – Galatians 5:16 • Gospel Remembrance – “He who did not spare His own Son… how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?” – Romans 8:32 • Church Community – “So that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Romans 15:6 A Closing Snapshot Living “to the praise of His glory” means letting every sphere of life—thoughts, words, work, relationships, possessions, pleasures, and pains—become a stage on which God’s brilliance is seen and celebrated. Empowered by the Spirit promised in Ephesians 1:14, we delight in making much of Him until the day our redemption is complete and eternal praise never ends. |
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