1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
I had been working most of the day writing a devotional. When it finally came together and I read over it one last time, I instinctively lifted my arm and pointed to heaven. You know, like some athletes do after scoring a touchdown or an actor when he bows at curtain call. I wanted God to know he deserved the glory for what I’d just accomplished. Although my work could hardly compare with a shout-out to God in front of a massive audience, the small gesture reinforced a belief I hold dear: I can do nothing without God. And I want to let him know every chance I get.
I’ve read Johann Sebastian Bach penned the initials SDG (standing for Soli Deo Gloria) at the bottom of each of his manuscripts to communicate God and God alone should be glorified in his work. Not only was giving glory to God for his immense talent right and good, but it probably protected him from turning his work into an idol.
Scripture clearly connects how we view what we do with idolatry.
For example, when a dispute arose as to whether eating food offered to idols would pose a stumbling block for others, Paul insisted the answer could be found in determining whether or not their actions gave glory to God. If they abstained from eating for God’s glory, they had nothing to worry about. But no less than if they ate for the glory of God. What motivated their behavior? Were they doing what they did for God’s glory? It’s a good question to ask of ourselves.
Giving God the glory in all we do protects us from worshiping whatever we create. It rightly acknowledges him to be the source of all that is good, creative and beautiful in our lives. If I offer meaningful counsel to a friend…Soli Deo Gloria. If I prepare a creative meal for my family…Soli Deo Gloria. If I write words that help someone…Soli Deo Gloria.
All we have comes from God. And every day he gives us the opportunity to do what we do for his glory—whether in small areas or big. May you and I intentionally make the most of each opportunity.
Soli Deo Gloria.