A Heart To Glorify God
Johannes emphasizes that the true foundation for kingship in God's kingdom is a heart that seeks to glorify God in all circumstances. He explains that God's choice of a king is based on the potential within a person to give glory to His name, not on outward appearance or impressive titles. Using biblical examples like David, Saul, and others, Johannes highlights that God looks at the heart, not external grandeur or majestic names, which can be dangerous if they lead to pride or stealing God's glory. He stresses that those who qualify for kingship are individuals who develop a heart of worship and a desire to honor God alone, regardless of their circumstances. Johannes points out that even angels and enemies like Nebuchadnezzar and Pharaoh ultimately give God glory, but God seeks willing hearts that worship Him freely. He illustrates that God often chooses the weak, humble, or seemingly strange to demonstrate His power and glory, ensuring that all honor goes to Him. The lesson concludes with a call for believers to cultivate a heart that glorifies God continually, training and exercising their worship in private and public life, so they may be prepared for the glorious day of reigning with Christ as true kings in His kingdom.
Main Points Outline
God's selection of kings is based on the heart's potential to glorify Him.
External appearance and impressive names do not qualify; God looks at the heart.
Developing a heart of worship and humility is essential for kingship.
God often chooses the weak, humble, or unlikely to demonstrate His glory.
He seeks willing worshipers who freely give Him glory, not those who seek fame or recognition.
Training in private worship and exercising a heart of praise are vital steps toward kingship.
Examples from Scripture (David, Moses, Paul) show God's use of weak or unlikely individuals for His glory.
Believers are called to continually glorify God in all circumstances, trusting His power and grace.
14 But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee.
7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
7 The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people:
20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.
10 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,
