All Things For His Glory

Scripture Focus: Romans 11:36

“For from him and through him and for him are all things…” (NIV)

Devotional Thought

Every masterpiece has an artist. Every story has an author. Paul reminds us: creation’s true story begins and ends with God.

Interpretation

Romans 11:36 crowns Paul’s profound reflection on God’s merciful plan for Jews and Gentiles with a doxology declaring that all things originate from God, exist through His sustaining power, and find their ultimate purpose in bringing Him glory. This verse emphasizes God’s wise orchestration of history — including Israel’s temporary hardening to provoke Gentile salvation and their eventual restoration — not as arbitrary decree but as a loving strategy rooted in His unsearchable depths, inviting human response through faith. From Him as Creator, through Him as Provider, and to Him as the goal of every event and life, everything converges to magnify His glory forever. This underscores the ongoing ingathering of God’s multi-ethnic people within the present age, all for the singular aim of exalting the God who blends mercy and faithfulness in Christ’s atoning work.

Contemporary Relevance

God has a purpose for you. You were formed by God, sustained by God, and invited to participate in His purpose. God’s story is not scripted without you — it includes you. You are God’s plan A. God has no plan B. When life feels directionless, this verse anchors you in a God who guides, empowers, and completes.

Quote of the Day

“All things are truly from Him, through Him, and for Him. Creation proclaims the meticulous attention, power, creativity, and generosity of God.” — John Piper

Reflection Question

Which part of this verse — from Him, through Him, or for Him — do you most need to remember in this season?

Prayer Prompt

Ask God to center your life around His purpose and glory.

• Copyright 2026 by Steven Chapman. Used by permission.