What are you living for? What are you pursuing? Many would answer these questions with, “I just want to be happy.” But how can you become happy? Traditional pursuits of happiness via acquisition and detachment have given way to achieving happiness through therapy. Even if we are the most self-aware generation, happiness still seems to elude us, slipping right between our fingers like sand.

Rather than putting themselves first, the Apostle Paul encouraged the Christians in Corinth to put God and others first. This was especially important when it came to eating certain meats that had been offered in pagan sacrifices. (See also 1 Corinthians 8:6-13). In the end, whatever we do, we  should do all to the glory of God.

Leah offers a stark example of living for oneself, regardless of how that might affect others. Marginalized and badly treated, she set out to win her husband’s affection. In the competition with her sister, she fought relentlessly and ended up with the victory. Even so, winning and finding lasting happiness do not always go together.

David demonstrates a God-centered approach to handling difficult situations. Hunted and hiding, David still recognized that the one who fulfilled his purpose was God, the one deserving glory, the one to whom he offered praise—even amid hardship.

We too can act so that in everything, God may be glorified.