UNDERSTANDING THE END FOR WHICH WE WERE MADE

For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. (Colossians 1:16 ESV)

There are many people, including Christians, who do not  have a clear understanding of the purpose for which God made them.The Westminster Shorter Catechism states this doctrine by way of a question and answer:

Q: “What is the chief end of man?”

A: “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.”

The ultimate end or chief purpose of man is to glorify and enjoy God. Too few people have any concern for the glory of God and therefore, certainly cannot enjoy Him.

The act of glorifying God involves bringing our thoughts and attitudes into conformity with the light of His Wisdom. We glorify God when we choose to be obedient servants and live according to His Will. Joy comes when we are at peace with Him and take pleasure in His blessings. We glorify and enjoy God when we worship Him as He has revealed Himself in His Word. We glorify God when we read the Bible and pray. We glorify God when we acknowledge His right to govern us. The twenty-four elders remind us:

“Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.” (Revelation 4:11 ESV)

Therefore, everything we do should be done for the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV) For one day the world will be full of the reality of God’s Glory (Habakkuk 2:14) and if we are faithful, we will share in the joy of His triumph.