The Whole Duty Of Man

January 18

The age old question for which man has sought a satisfactory answer through the entirety of his existence is: “Why am I here?” He seeks a satisfactory resolution to his quest in many ways. He invests himself in a career but finds it unsatisfying. He pursues gratification in relationships but finds them un-fulfilling. He loses himself in pleasure and self-indulgence but this leaves him empty.

Pastor Brad, of God Thoughts Wired, has done a word study that will illumine the path of a man who is seeking a sense of purpose. If a man will but follow this wise counsel, he will find himself fulfilled.

He points out that the Bible speaks directly and specifically to this issue and gives us a clear and concise answer to our question.

In Isaiah 43:7 we are told that God created human beings so that He would be glorified. We are created for God’s glory. The purpose of human life is to glorify God. Here the prophet states, “Everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have formed, even whom I have made,” has one over-riding purpose, to bring glory to the name of his God.

Further, Jeremiah 13:11 and John 15:7-8 also confirm the ultimate purpose of man as being created “for the glory of God.” In addition, 1 Corinthians 10:31 admonishes us, “Whether then you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

Jesus Himself confirmed the purpose of His own life upon the earth as glorifying God: In John 17:4 He says, “I glorified You on the earth, having accomplished the purpose You gave Me to do”

Kavodh, a Hebrew noun means, “glory, to be honored.” In the Old Testament, kavodh is used to express the idea of honor, respect,” renown, prestige.

Doxa, a Greek noun, means “glory, splendor, radiance, fame, renown, honor.” In the New Testament, the most important understanding of doxa is that the glory of God has been revealed in and through Jesus Christ.

Beyond Pastor Brad’s word study, there is the truth that is stated very clearly in Hebrews 1:3 where Paul says, “He, Jesus, is the radiance of His glory, the exact representation of His nature.”

According to the immutable Word of God, there is only one reason for our existence, only one purpose for our being. The totality of our purpose for existence is to glorify God, to honor Him. We were born to bring God glory.

In Ecclesiastes 12:13 it is stated thusly, “Love God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.”

If we love the Lord, we will be obedient to Him. In our complete surrender of our person-hood to Him, in allowing the radiance of His perfection to shine through our lives, we are fulfilling His good pleasure—glorifying Himself through His beloved children.