For the Glory of God!

It has been just over a month since we had the chance to visit Westside Baptist Church (Eugene, OR), but the memory of a living and vibrant church remains.  This is a ministry that is passionate about worshiping and serving the Savior, led by a pastor (Pastor Kaminski) and staff whose love for the Lord is infectious. As I have said before, one of the greatest joys of this season of our lives has been in getting to know other believers, and fellow ministers who are living their lives for the glory of God. Our family spends time at the end of each day (at least the end of most days), and we talk about a passage of Scripture, work on Scripture memorization, or read a family devotional, before singing a song and praying together. Recently we began a “Question Box.” Well, technically, as Micah pointed out, it is really a “Question Cylinder” since it is a small round can with a lid. But in our question box, we encourage our kids to ask a question about God, or the Bible, or something they are wondering about. So, one of the questions was, “Why did God make people?” That is a great question! As we think about Scripture, the answer is very clear. God made people for His glory. Revelation 4:11 declares: “Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.”

Everything exists and remains for God’s pleasure (or according to His will). Think about that–everything that exists (“all things”) is here simply because God wants them to be here. That includes the stars and planets, the fish and mammals, the world and universe, and everything in them. But understand, God did not flippantly create this world, or you or me. God has a plan for everything He has made. Revelation 4:11 ultimately tells us what that plan is, as it expresses how we are meant to respond to the Creator God. It gives us the words “glory and honor and power.” As a part of God’s creation, you are to give Him glory, bring Him honor and acknowledge His power.

So, how are you doing in living out the reason for your existence? When we talked with our children we noted that many people live for so much less than the glory of God. Simply living to acquire wealth, provide for your family, look ahead to retirement, pursue pleasure, watch TV, or cheer for “your” team will not only leave you empty, but it keeps you from fulfilling the grand purpose for which God made you. We are created and exist for so much more. Lasting fulfillment will only come as we live our lives for the glory of God!