What most interests God?

The answer is God’s glory. Angels and cherubim have been created by him to consistently give him praise. He has constructed the universe so that the heavens and earth shout forth his glory. He has created men and women in his image and likeness with this purpose in mind. Everything that has been, is, or will be is for his glory. Max Lucado writes, “God’s staff meetings, if he had them, would revolve around one question: ‘How can we reveal my glory today?’ God’s to-do list consists of one item: ‘Reveal my glory.’ Heaven’s framed and mounted purpose statement hangs in the angels’ break room just above the angel food cake. It reads: ‘Declare God’s glory.’ (Isaiah 6; Psalm 19; Psalm 8:5)

What most interests the enemies of God?

The answer is not God’s glory, but their own. Lucifer leads the way, and 100% of men and women follow. All are born self-centered, and as they advance in years they also increase in their devilish narcissism. Humans imagine themselves to be the center of the world, and they expect all their neighbors to treat them as such. They are consumed with making a name for themselves. Consistent they are in looking out for number one. Yes, all men and women are sinful, self-promoting idolaters who seek to rob God of his glory and worship themselves. They prove to be “chips off the old block.” They are glory-thieves just like their father the devil.

What will God receive from the wicked?

The answer is his glory. Listen to the revelation of God given through the prophet Isaiah, “I am the Lord; that is my name; my glory I give to no other, nor my praise to carved idols.” Therefore, when God allows individuals to rebel and harden themselves, he promises to respond with just retribution, and this too is for his own glory. (Isaiah 42;8; Exodus 14:4, 17-18; Numbers 16:19)

What most interests the Son of God?

The answer is God’s glory. As Jesus walked upon the earth, he perfectly reflected the glory of the Lord. One can hear his passion as he prayed in the garden, “Father, glorify your name.” This passion could also be seen as he taught his friends to pray, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” And today, when Jesus and his Spirit mercifully, graciously, and sovereignly save, this too is all about his glory. He saves sinners because this increases his delight and fame. (Hebrews 1:3; John 12:28; Matthew 6:9; Isaiah 48:9-11; Romans 9:23-24; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 4:15; Ephesians 1:13-14)

What becomes the passion of the Redeemed?

The answer is God’s glory. Hear the Psalmist, “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory because of your lovingkindness, because of your truth.” At the Temple’s dedication, Solomon leads the Israelites in a season of inspired worship. He commands his people, “Declare God’s glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” The Christian finds himself desiring to walk in such a manner as gives God glory. He takes care of his body in order to glorify God. He seeks to let his light shine before others that men may see his good works and give glory to the Heavenly Father. Whether he eats, drinks, or whatever he does; God’s glory is first and foremost on his mind. (Psalm 115:1; 1 Chronicles 16:24; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Matthew 5:16 ; 1 Corinthians 10:31)

What do the redeemed get to share?

Believe it or not, the answer is God’s glory. Israel was privileged to taste a little of his glory in the Exodus. He met with them in the wilderness and dwelt with them in their tabernacle. Moses was even more privileged to enjoy the glory of the Lord. Specially, he experienced God’s glory on the mountain, and even then he could not get enough. A taste of God’s splendor resulted in his bold request, “Let me see more of your glory.” Solomon and the Israelites shared God’s glory in the early days of the Temple. How fantastic it must have been to see God move in and spectacularly dwell with his people. And in the future, Christ’s bride will enjoy God’s glory in even more splendor. Jesus commented on such in his garden prayer. Peter encouraged his church with this truth, “And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” John, in his apocalyptic vision sought to express the glory which was yet to come. Friends, this is our inheritance. How fantastic it will be when we finally see Jesus face to face! (Exodus 16:10; 40;34; Exodus 24:16-17; 33:18; 1 Kings 8:11; 2 Chronicles 5:14; 7:1; John 17; 1 Peter 5:10)

So what ought we focus on today?

Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness. (Psalm 29:1-2)