Glorify

I am preparing to lead another group of ladies in Bible study that will begin in January. I’ve searched studies trying to find the perfect lessons to teach. I’ve landed on a Bible study that delves into the teachings of Jesus through parables.

 

The particular study I chose is written by an author whom I love. I’ve done two other studies she wrote and I am excited to use her material again.

 

DSC02392mAs I was looking through the two studies I’ve done, I came across the verse in John 17 when Jesus was praying for His disciples. This is one phrase He said in that section. “All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them.” (John 17:10 – NIV)

 

The band of men that Jesus had chosen had brought glory to Him. Oh there had been the inappropriate questions, the outbursts, the missteps. But there were also brilliant statements like, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” (Matthew 16:16 – NIV) And “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.” (John 6:68-69 – NIV)

 

Jesus knew there would be more blunders before it was over as well. Judas would betray Jesus (John 18:1-11). Peter would deny Christ three times (John 18:15-18; John 18:25-27). Thomas would doubt (John 20:24-29). But Jesus still believed His glory would shine through these men.

 

We find ourselves in similar situations. We want to glorify God in all that we say and do, but sometimes we mess up. The good news? Jesus still believes in us. He believes that His glory will shine through us.

 

How is this possible? Let’s take a look at a few passages that show us how we glorify Jesus.

 

Through Music

“So that the Gentiles may glorify God for his mercy, as it is written: ‘Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing hymns to your name.’” (Romans 15:9 – NIV)

 

Through our Physical Bodies

“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:18-20 – NIV)

 

Through Service and Generosity

“This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.” (2 Corinthians 9:12-13 – NIV)

 

Through Living Good Lives

“Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” (1 Peter 2:11-12 – NIV)

 

Through Suffering

“However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.” (1 Peter 4:16 – NIV)

 

I would also mention that when we have a willing spirit, God will use us to glorify Himself. God will be glorified through you when your spirit is moldable. So be open to what He’s calling you to.

 

January seems like a long way off. It will be difficult to wait, but as my Dad has told me many times, “I bet you do.” Yes, I will wait for January. But in the meantime, I will be a little more focused on how God is being glorified through my life. I pray that you’ll be doing the same.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

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