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“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
The Apostle Paul consistently taught that the Christian life must be centered on Jesus Christ, with every action aimed at glorifying Him. In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul addresses issues surrounding conscience and food customs, but he ends the chapter with a firm command: “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” It is a simple verse to memorize, and one we can apply to daily life.
Christians are not of this world (John 15:18-20) and are called to be the salt and light of the earth. Jesus warned in the Parable of the Fig Tree that some may appear to follow Him, but without fruit, they are in danger of judgment (Luke 13:6-9). True disciples bear evidence of their faith.
Paul also reminded believers in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 that they are not their own, for they were bought with a price. Their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. A Christian’s duty is to glorify God by sharing the Gospel (the Great Commission) and fulfilling the Greatest Commandment (loving God and loving others).
In context, 1 Corinthians 10:31 teaches that glorifying God means conducting all our affairs in righteousness. Biblically, “glory” points to splendor, greatness, and holiness, all attributes of God Himself.
Using the metaphors of salt and light, Scripture teaches that we cannot reflect Christ’s righteousness if we ourselves are walking in darkness (1 John 1:6). The shining city on a hill (Matthew 5:14–16) also illustrates Jesus’ call for His people to do good works, not to earn salvation, but to testify to it. While we are saved by grace through faith, good works reveal a transformed heart, indwelt by the Holy Spirit. They show that the blood of Christ has defeated darkness.
Glorifying God should be the purpose behind everything we do. Questions worth asking are: Am I truly living in Christ? Does it weigh on your soul that unbelievers are in your life—family, friends, neighbors? Do you take seriously Christ’s command to share the Gospel? Do your actions and deeds bring glory to God?
The Latin phrase Soli Deo Gloria, “To God alone be the glory,” was a core principle of the Reformation. It remains just as vital today. It should be the standard for our lives, choices, and testimony. In all things, live for His glory.
