Does Your Life Reflect God’s Glory?
“The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
Psalm 19:1
Today’s media glorifies famous athletes and celebrities, touting extravagant lifestyles, impressive mansions, fancy cars, and designer attire. Even with all the glamour and glitz, they all pale in comparison to the glory and radiance of God Almighty.
Consider God’s glory. Moses, the great patriarch of the Old Testament, begged God, “Please, show me Your glory” (Ex. 33:18). God responded, “You cannot see my face, for no one can see me and live” (vs. 20). But Moses was allowed to see God’s back, the afterglow of His glory.
We find God’s glory in various representations throughout scripture. As the Israelites wandered in the desert, God’s glory was represented by a great white cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night. When the Tabernacle was built, God’s radiance and glory filled the temple in a similar way (1 Kings 8:10), serving as a point of focus for all those who wished to worship Him. Christ Jesus displayed God’s glory through His life, death, and resurrection. Christ was the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature (Heb. 1:3). God’s glory on earth became identified with the grace and truth of Jesus Christ (John 1:14). And now it is passed to us to reflect His glory.
As a mirror reflects lights, we are to reflect Christ’s glory to a sinful world, mimicking His character. Our purpose in life is not to be successful for the sake of success itself—that would be seeking our own glory. Our true purpose is to honor and glorify Jesus Christ. “…we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Thess. 1:11-12
When we live a life that represents Christ’s character and when we give God the credit for the blessings and achievements in our life, God is glorified. Others see the “afterglow” of His glory in our lives.
Let’s take a minute to evaluate our lives. Do we reflect God’s glory? Do people see His awesome power, grace, and forgiveness because of us? Do we represent God in a way that would draw them to worship Jesus? Do our lives represent the truth and grace of Jesus Christ? When you consider God’s glory, it’s quite a calling.
The Power of Truth:
- “…and I saw the glory of the God of Israel coming from the east. His voice was like the roar of rushing waters, and the land was radiant with his glory.” Eze. 43:2
- “And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Cor. 3:18
- “Not to us, O LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.” Psalm 115:1
Suggestion for Prayer:
Humbly ask God to continue to transform you into the likeness of Christ, that others may see His glory and seek to know Him.