Example from John
I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.
John 17:4
In the profound depths of John 17:4, we find Jesus expressing a fundamental truth about glorifying God. This verse, nestled within the last Gospel of the New Testament, serves as a guiding light for understanding how we can honor God in our everyday lives.
For further insight on this scripture, listen to this verses Spiritual Kick Off episode here.
Beyond the Surface: The High-Priestly Prayer
John 17 is more than just a chapter; it’s the heart of Jesus’ High-Priestly prayer, an intercession for the nascent church and believers everywhere. In this prayer, Jesus touches upon themes of glorification, protection, sanctification, unity, and the ultimate glorification of believers. It’s within this rich tapestry of divine intercession that we find a simple, yet profound, blueprint for honoring God.
Simplifying the Divine: Doing What He Tells Us
At its core, honoring God seems to be encapsulated by a straightforward principle: “do whatever He tells you to do.” This concept might seem simple, but its implications are vast. Often, we confine our acts of glorification to structured religious activities like church service, charity, or Bible studies. While these are undoubtedly important, they represent only a fraction of our lives.
God in the Everyday: Inviting Him In
The real challenge, and opportunity, lies in finding ways to honor God in the mundane, the routine, and the less-than-ideal moments of our lives. Whether it’s a tedious Wednesday morning meeting or the daily grind that seems to repeat itself, every moment holds the potential for glorification if we invite God into it.
Blurring the Lines: Integrating Faith into Life
Our lives are often compartmentalized into neat segments: work, family, hobbies, and faith. Each has its “outfit,” a role we slip into, often keeping them distinct and separate. This segmentation, however, does a disservice to the omnipresence of God in our lives. God isn’t just for Sundays or charity events; He’s for every moment, every breath, every challenge, and every joy.
The Indwelling Presence: Listening to the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit resides within us, a constant companion and guide. The question isn’t about when or where we should listen but whether we’re willing to heed the call at any moment. Honoring God isn’t about waiting for the right outfit or the right time; it’s about recognizing His constant presence and acting in obedience, regardless of the role we’re playing at the moment.
The Call to Action: Finishing the Work
Just as Jesus glorified God by completing His earthly mission, we too are called to finish the work God has set before us. This isn’t a task reserved for the “convenient” times but a constant, living commitment that transcends our daily roles and routines.
Embracing Obedience: A Life of Glorification
As we reflect on what it means to honor God, let’s embrace the idea that every moment is an opportunity for glorification. It’s not about the clothes we wear or the roles we play but about living in obedience and inviting God into every aspect of our lives. By doing so, we not only honor Him but also embark on a journey of fulfilling the unique purpose He has for each of us.
In the end, honoring God is about integrating our faith into every facet of our existence, walking in obedience, and recognizing that every moment is an opportunity to glorify Him. Let us strive to live a life where every action, big or small, is a testament to the love and devotion we have for our Creator.