Enduring Eternity- Embracing the Timeless Wisdom of ‘Glorify God and Enjoy Him Forever’
Who said “glorify God and enjoy him forever”? This profound statement, often attributed to the 17th-century philosopher and theologian John Calvin, encapsulates the essence of Christian life and the purpose of existence. It serves as a guiding principle for believers, reminding them of their primary calling and the ultimate joy that comes from a deep, personal relationship with God.
In this article, we will explore the origins of this statement, its significance in Christian theology, and how it can be applied to our daily lives. By examining the words of John Calvin and other theologians, we will gain a better understanding of the importance of glorifying God and enjoying him forever.
John Calvin, a French theologian and pastor, was a key figure in the Protestant Reformation. His work, “Institutes of the Christian Religion,” was a foundational text for the Reformed tradition and has had a lasting impact on Christian thought. In this seminal work, Calvin writes, “The chief end of man is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever.” This statement, which has become a catchphrase for Calvinists, highlights the importance of worship and the pursuit of joy in the presence of God.
The concept of glorifying God is rooted in the Bible, which teaches that humans are created to bring honor and praise to their Creator. In the book of Psalm, we read, “O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens” (Psalm 8:1). This passage emphasizes the splendor and majesty of God, and the responsibility of humans to acknowledge and celebrate his greatness.
Enjoying God, on the other hand, is a reflection of the joy that comes from a close, personal relationship with him. The Bible teaches that God desires a relationship with his people, and that this relationship brings immense happiness and fulfillment. In the book of Proverbs, we are reminded, “Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold” (Proverbs 3:13-14). This wisdom and understanding come from knowing and loving God, which is the source of true joy.
In our modern, fast-paced world, it can be easy to lose sight of the importance of glorifying God and enjoying him forever. However, by following this principle, we can find purpose and meaning in our lives. Here are a few ways to apply this concept to our daily lives:
1. Spend time in worship and prayer, giving thanks to God for his many blessings.
2. Seek to understand and appreciate the wonders of God’s creation, from the beauty of nature to the complexity of the human soul.
3. Share the love of God with others, showing kindness and compassion in all our interactions.
4. Cultivate a spirit of gratitude, recognizing that every good and perfect gift comes from above (James 1:17).
In conclusion, the statement “glorify God and enjoy him forever” is a timeless reminder of our purpose as humans. By embracing this principle, we can find true joy and fulfillment in our lives, and contribute to the glory of God in all that we do.
