Giving Glory to God

“(as it is written, ‘A FATHER OF MANY NATIONS HAVE I MADE YOU’) in the presence of Him whom he believed, even God, who gives life to the dead and calls into being that which does not exist. In hope against hope he believed, so that he might become a father of many nations according to that which had been spoken, ‘SO SHALL YOUR DESCENDANTS BE.’ Without becoming weak in faith he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah’s womb; yet, with respect to the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully assured that what God had promised, He was able also to perform.” Romans 4:17-21

There are quite a few religious cliches that travel about evangelical circles. We repeat them in churches, prayers, and other spiritual activities but are hard pressed to define them. One such phrase is “giving the glory to God.” It sounds wonderfully uplifting and is certainly scriptural, but what does it mean?

The glory of God is the sum of all His divine attributes - love, holiness, mercy, grace, and other such character traits. We can only reflect God’s glory, letting His nature be expressed through us. That means allowing the Holy Spirit to permeate our lives so the fruit of the Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control - is constantly developed and displayed.

Being patient in a line of angry shoppers, loving a consistently ornery coworker, refusing to pass the gossip baton, returning good for evil to those who hurt us - these are practical ways God is glorified. Simply put, as the fruit if the Holy Spirit is exhibited in us, others can see the glory of God in human context. When combined with a servant’s heart, for Jesus came to serve and not be served, there is great potential to honor Christ and demonstrate true Christlikeness.

“Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31