When Charles Haddon Spurgeon was a young preacher, his father, the Rev. John Spurgeon, suggested that Charles go to college to gain prominence. It was arranged for him to meet Dr. Joseph Angus, the principal of Stepney College, London. They were to
meet at Mr. Macmillan’s home in Cambridge, and Spurgeon was there at the appointed hour. He waited for two hours, but the learned doctor never appeared. When Spurgeon finally inquired about the man, he discovered that Dr. Angus had been waiting in another room and, because of another appointment, had already departed. Disappointed, Spurgeon left for a preaching engagement. While he was walking along, he heard a voice clearly say to him, “Seekest thou great things for thyself? Seek them not!” From that moment, Spurgeon determined to do the will of God for the glory of God; and God blessed him in an exceptional way.

Man was created to glorify God (Isaiah 43:7), and man is saved to glorify God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). It was the glory of God that motivated the Apostle Paul, and this ought to motivate our lives as well.

Verse to remember: “Should you then seek great things for yourself? Seek them not. For I will bring disaster on all people, declares the Lord, but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life” (Jeremiah 45:5, NIV).

Other Scripture: Isaiah 43:7; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Romans 11:36.

Action assignment: Talk with God about honoring Him. Settle in your own mind just how you might glorify God today—and every day.