Based on a writing by Rev. Hugh Binning (c. 1650)

Romans 11:36 —“For from Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.” (NASB) 1 Corinthians 10:31—“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all things for the glory of God.” (NASB)

The essential question for all people is: What is our purpose, and how do we achieve it? Like any skill or science, true religion has foundational principles that guide all other knowledge. These principles are few and simple, but they must be considered carefully. When ignored, what is clear becomes difficult and burdensome.

The most important principle is our purpose—our end. Without understanding this, all our actions will be in vain. What is our great purpose? It is to glorify God in everything we do, because he is the source and reason for all things.

God is completely independent and perfect, existing for his own glory. We, on the other hand, are dependent on him. Everything comes from God and should return to him. This principle is written in our very nature: we are made to glorify God, just as we are created by his power. Ignoring this truth leads to confusion and destruction in our lives. God’s pursuit of his own glory is not selfish, because in glorifying himself, he blesses and fulfills his creation.

Unlike the rest of creation, humans bear God’s image, making us uniquely created for his glory. All creation serves humanity, and humanity, in turn, is meant to reflect all glory back to God. We are the mediators of creation’s praise, offering it back to the Creator. Though sin has broken this relationship, through Christ, we are restored to fulfill this purpose once again.

To glorify God is to reflect his attributes in our thoughts, words, and actions. We must live in a way that shows God’s justice, power, goodness, and mercy. This is the ultimate reason for our existence, and failing to do so makes us worthless, like salt that has lost its flavor. But through Christ’s redemption, we are renewed and empowered to glorify God once again.

Our lives should focus on God’s glory. We must ask ourselves: Why are we here? If we neglect this purpose, we will face judgment for wasting our lives on lesser things. Our primary duty is to serve and glorify God in all that we do.