Huge Problem: Failure to See God’s Glory
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31
One of the biggest problems of the human heart is our failure to see and live for God’s glory. We were created for something far bigger than ourselves — to glorify the Creator. But sin has distorted this purpose, and many of us are left searching for meaning in lesser things. This message explores what it means to live for God’s glory, why we often fall short, and how Christ restores us to our true purpose.
We Were Created for God’s Glory
Isaiah 43:7 tells us we were created “for my glory, whom I formed and made.” God is not just an accessory to our lives — He is the centre of the universe.
“For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever!” — Romans 11:36
God created us not to add to His glory, but to display His glory. That’s a profound difference. And this truth is actually good news. When God acts for His own glory, He is also acting for our greatest good — because His glory is where our joy is found.
God’s salvation is not ultimately for our sake, but for His name’s sake (Psalm 106:8; Ezekiel 36:22–27). When we see this, we can begin to understand our purpose and even face suffering differently.
As Paul writes in Philippians 1:20–24, whether by life or by death, his goal was simple: Christ exalted in his body. A life lived for God’s glory is a life that can face anything.
The Human Problem: Falling Short of God’s Glory
Despite being made for God’s glory, Romans 3:23 says: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Sin is not just doing bad things. At its core, sin is refusing to glorify God. It’s the desire to replace God with ourselves. Paul describes this in Romans 1:18–23 — though God’s power and nature are clearly seen in creation, humans chose not to glorify Him. Instead, we exchanged the glory of God for lesser things.
This is the essence of the human problem: we want glory for ourselves, not for God.
Restoring Our Purpose: Living for God’s Glory
The Westminster Shorter Catechism begins with this question:
Q: What is the chief end of man?
A: Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever.
The goal of theology — knowing God — is doxology — praising God.
1) Glorify God as God
- By believing in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
- Hebrews 1:3 reminds us that Christ is “the radiance of God’s glory.”
- Treat God as God not only in salvation, but in everyday life.
2) Glorify God by Bearing Fruit
- “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit.” — John 15:8
- Let your light shine through good works (Matthew 5:16).
- This includes confession, repentance, and obedience.
3) Glorify God by Being Fully Content in Him
- John Piper famously said: “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.”
- Glorifying God should not be a burden but a joy — we glorify what we treasure.
- Psalm 51:12 prays for this joy: “Restore to me the joy of your salvation…”
4) Glorify God by Sharing Him with Others
- Share your testimony, give God the credit, and explain the gospel clearly.
- Paul’s mission was not self-promotion, but salvation for many (1 Corinthians 10:33; 9:19–22).
- We glorify God when others come to know and treasure Him through us.
Follow the Example of Christ
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 11:1
Jesus is the perfect model of glorifying God. God’s goal is to make us like Christ.
“We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son.” — John 1:14
In Christ, we see:
- A beloved Son of God
- One who loves God, people, and the kingdom
- A person of divine wisdom
- Victory through trust and obedience
- A life full of godly virtues
We are to imitate not only Christ, but also faithful followers like Paul — those who need God, exalt God, and obey God.
Reflection
- Which of the 4 ways to glorify God (glorify God as God, bear fruits, be satisfied in Him, share about Him) is easier or harder for you? Why?
- Reflect on your purpose of living. Is it to glorify God and imitate Christ? What distractions or hindrances might be pulling you away from this purpose?
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