Live for the Glory of God

Wow, I've been reflecting so much on what Cliff Buell shared about glorifying God, and it really hit home for me. It's easy to get caught up in the world's message of 'do what makes you happy,' isn't it? Everywhere you look, from social media to self-help books, that's the mantra. But as Cliff pointed out, for Christians, that kind of thinking can actually be really toxic. I used to think my spiritual journey was all about finding personal peace and happiness. And while those are wonderful byproducts of faith, they're not the main goal. Reading Cliff Buell's perspective reminded me that our ultimate purpose is to 'Do. What. Glorifies. God.' It's a huge mindset shift, but honestly, it brings such clarity. When I started asking myself, 'How can this glorify God?' instead of 'How will this make me feel good?', my priorities completely changed. This isn't to say we shouldn't have joy or experience happiness – quite the opposite! The joy of the Lord is our strength. But that joy often comes in unexpected ways, especially through obedience and service. It's not the fleeting, superficial happiness the world often promises. It's a deeper, more abiding peace that stays even when things are tough. As Cliff so wisely put it, 'Christianity isn't always sunshine & happiness. It's hard work & dedication to him, not us.' I've definitely found that to be true in my own life. There are days when my faith feels like a real challenge, requiring effort and sacrifice. But those are often the moments where I grow the most and feel God's presence most profoundly. For me, 'glorifying God' means trying to live out my faith in every aspect of my life, even as a 'digital creator' or just someone navigating the online world. It means being intentional about the content I consume and create, thinking about whether it reflects God's truth and love. It means using my platform, however small, to uplift others and share messages of hope, rather than just chasing likes or validation. It's about remembering that my life isn't just about me; it's about reflecting His light. The 'do what makes you happy' culture can be so self-focused. It encourages us to prioritize our feelings above all else, which often leads to an endless pursuit of the next fleeting pleasure. But the Bible calls us to something higher – to selfless love, sacrifice, and seeking God's will. It's a journey that requires daily surrender, discipline, and a willingness to step outside our comfort zones. It's in those moments of dedication, when we choose God's glory over our own immediate gratification, that we often find the truest, most lasting happiness. It's not always easy, but knowing that I'm living for a purpose greater than myself makes every effort worth it. I'm so grateful for voices like Cliff Buell who remind us of these fundamental truths.