The glory of the new year, the glory of the Gospel, the glory of preaching. the glory of a day. Glory is a word we use a lot, but do we ever think about what it means? Glory is an important word because it expresses a connection to God.

Unfortunately, we often don’t see or acknowledge God’s glory. Paul described individuals who were preoccupied with the things of this world. He said, “in their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God” (2 Corinthians 4:4). God’s glory is to be his own. Isaiah 42:8 says, “I am the LORD; that is my name; my glory I give to no other, nor my praise to carved idols.”

The only way we can enjoy glory is by being with God. Psalm 3:3 says God is a “shield about me, my glory.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “Whether therefore you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all things for the glory of God.” In other words, keep your life connected to God and devoted to God. To glorify God is to praise him. “Let them give glory to the LORD, and declare his praise in the coastlands” (Isaiah 42:12).

How will we glorify God in 2018?

• Will we intentionally spend quality time with God in the Bible?
• Will we spend time with God in prayer?
• Will we intentionally be transformed by his presence (2 Corinthians 3:16-18)?
• Will we help others be transformed by God’s glory?
• Will we be ready for the ultimate transformation of our lowly body into a glorious body (Philippians 3:21)?