Tuesday, January 3, 2006

The Glory of God

I have heard this phrase over and over again in prayer, when we as believers talk about serving the Lord, and it catches my attention just about everytime I hear it. What is the 'glory of God?' How can I live a life that 'brings' glory to God? I mapped out some definitions of the word 'glory' and this is what I came up with:

1. Glory according to Mirriam-Webster (current dictionary) - 'great honor, praise, or distinction accorded by common consent; renown." - The main idea I believe is RECOGNITION. I believe Romans 11:36 captures this idea. How often do I recognize the Lord or acknowledge Him?

2. Glory according to Noah Webster (much older dictionary about 178 years ago) - His primary definition is 'Brightness; luster; splendor' The main idea being SPLENDOR. I think of the passage in Matt. 17:2,5 and how Peter descibes the transfiguration account as 'excellent glory' in 2 Peter 1:17. Does my life reflect the splendor of the Lord?

3. Glory is the Greek word 'Doxa' (older than English - of course) - Primarily means "HIGH OPINION" - Do I live in such a way that elevates God?

4. Glory in Hebrew carries the idea of 'weight or heaviness,' The main idea is the PRESENCE OF THE LORD - We need to remember that God is with us. Our lives will not be the same if we consciouly remember that the Lord is with us.

"Give unto the Lord, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the Lord glory and strength." (1 Chr. 16:28)

"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." (2 Cor. 6:20)

Anyway just some thoughts. Have a God-glorifying day!

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