As I set out at dawn to complete my annual solo Labor Day Marathon (with the help of my sweet husband) yesterday, I couldn’t help but laugh as I considered that the majority of the world’s population would not consider running 26.2 miles for fun enjoyable or relaxing.
In fact, it’s reported that the majority of Americans choose to participate in holiday cookouts on Labor Day, making it a top grilling weekend and time for socializing and relaxing with loved ones.
But this is the deal. As believers, no matter what we decided to do, the Bible is very clear that it should have been done for God’s glory.
This is something made clear in Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth when he wrote, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
With these words, Paul reminded them and us that every aspect of our lives—even the most routine, ordinary tasks—holds profound spiritual value.
Starting off his letter to the Corinthian church, the Apostle Paul addresses a highly debated topic (1 Corinthians 10:23-30) of the time—whether believers could eat meat previously sacrificed to pagan idols. While Paul confirms that Christians have great freedom in Christ, he shifts the focus from what is simply permitted to what is ultimately beneficial, establishing a universal standard for daily living.
In doing so, Paul declares that even the most mundane acts like eating or drinking should be intentional choices made to honor God and reflect His character. Which means what we eat matters!
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV
Especially when we consider that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in each and every believer. In light of that we are to “honor God” with our bodies, something that makes everything we do an opportunity to bring Him glory.
Furthermore, living out the command to “do all to the glory of God” means recognizing that worship is not confined to church buildings or special holy days, but is woven into our everyday routines in “whatever” we do.
You see, when you and I make God's glory our primary standard and goal, our perspective shifts from pleasing ourselves to a desire to point others toward His goodness. Practically, this calls us to consider how our choices affect the faith of those around us, transforming our daily habits—such as our work, hobbies, and conversations—into opportunities to act with integrity, kindness, and love.
Ultimately, the verse serves as a powerful reminder that no action is too small to matter to God, and every choice we make can be a living testimony of our faith.
So “whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” my friend. You will not only be acting in obedience to the command to honor God with your body, but will be using every day actions to lead others to the One who inspires this worship.
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our bodies are not our own. And, as such, everything we do should be done to glorify You. Help us to understand this Lord that we might eat, drink, and act in ways that are pure, honoring, and holy. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!
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