In what ways can we seek God's glory in our personal decisions? Our Starting Verse: John 12:28 “Father, glorify Your name!” Then a voice came from heaven: “I have glorified it, and will glorify it again.” What Glorifying God Means • To glorify God is to display His character—His holiness, power, wisdom, love—so clearly that others see Him for who He truly is. • Jesus’ own request in John 12:28 shows that every action, word, and motive can serve one ultimate purpose: magnifying the Father’s name. • Because Scripture is completely true, we can trust that the same aim governs our lives today. Why Our Personal Decisions Matter • Decisions are the daily crossroads where faith meets real life. • Even small choices either spotlight God’s greatness or distract from it. • 1 Corinthians 10:31 reminds us, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” Four Guiding Principles for God-Glorifying Choices 1. Align with God’s Word – Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – If Scripture clearly speaks, we obey without compromise. 2. Reflect Christ’s Character – Colossians 3:17: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” – Ask, “Would this look like Jesus in me?” 3. Depend on the Spirit’s Power – Galatians 5:16: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” – Prayer and surrender keep motives pure and choices Spirit-led. 4. Seek the Benefit of Others – Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Decisions aimed at serving and building up people draw attention to God’s goodness. Practical Areas to Apply Today • Time Management – Prioritize worship, fellowship, and service before lesser pursuits. • Finances – Budget to support gospel work; avoid debt that hinders generosity. • Relationships – Choose honesty, forgiveness, and purity, showing God’s love in action. • Work and Study – Strive for excellence, integrity, and humility, knowing you serve Christ (Colossians 3:23). • Leisure and Media – Select activities that refresh without compromising holiness (Philippians 4:8). Encouragement from Other Passages • Psalm 115:1: “Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory.” • John 15:8: “This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit.” • 1 Peter 4:11: “So that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” Living for His Glory—A Daily Resolve • Begin each day echoing Jesus’ prayer: “Father, glorify Your name in my choices today.” • Evaluate decisions by the simple test: Does this honor God’s truth, display Christ’s character, rely on the Spirit, and bless others? • As we consistently make God-centered choices, He fulfills His promise: “I have glorified it, and will glorify it again.” |