In my last post, we talked about the glory ahead of us that is so beautifully unimaginable. We began to discuss how to live in eager expectation for eternity. The benefit of this is not only that we achieve glory in the end, but also that we begin to see, taste, admire, and enjoy the glories of God today. While full completion of the gift of glory lies ahead, the Lord allows us to share in His glory even now.Second Corinthians 1:5 says,

“For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too” (ESV).

Considering your circumstances, it may be hard at times to believe that the Lord is sharing His glory with you. But Paul says that “the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18; ESV). It’s all a matter of focus. As humans, we tend to become so concerned with ourselves, missing out on the beauty that is happening around us. We are either too focused on the negative around us that is “just ruining our lives”, or we become so overly focused on the good things, claiming that we have accomplished so much. Both are examples of pride and both distract us from what our real focus ought to be in life- the Kingdom of God.

“But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33; ESV

The beginning of this week was draining for me. I had a lot on my to-do list and I was trying to do it out of my own strength. After each late night of completing assignments in crunch time, I would congratulate myself on beating the deadline. But my strength was quickly running out. I accomplished each of my tasks but I had no feeling of accomplishment. I had no rest, no energy, and inwardly, I felt my joy depleting. In my time with the Lord on Wednesday morning, I was reminded of Matthew 6:33. I decided that I would put God at the forefront of my mind and make each decision accordingly. As a result of this, I completed my work with time to spare which allowed me to spend more time with the Lord and get more rest. God is the well of life; He invites us to draw from Him. We just need to come.

“but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” -Isaiah 40:31

The glory of God is being exhibited all around us- are you missing it? It is seen in the beauty of Creation, acts of service, simple compliments, and above all BREATH. Breath is the first gift we receive and it allows us to receive the greatest gift- LIFE. The Lord God breathed life into the first man’s nostrils in order for him to be a living being (Genesis 2:7). Every breath you breathe in is a gift from God. Cherish it and remember it when you think that glory is too far away. With every breath that is taken is an equal breath given. Each breath out is an opportunity to give glory back to the One who gave it to you in the first place. According to the Westminster Catechism, which many historical theologians would agree with, the chief end of man is “to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” Glorify means to praise, give honor, and reflect God’s glory. Therefore, as humans, it is our main purpose in life to be a bouncing board of God’s glory. In doing so, we share in the glory of Christ. The best way to absorb the glory of God is to recognize the blessings of God in your life then proclaim that back to Him.

When our lens is focused on the eternal glory ahead we will recognize the blessings of God all around us now. Every breath in is an enjoyment of God, every breath out is an opportunity to glorify Him. Rest in His presence and take a deep breath. In this, we will begin to see, taste, admire and enjoy the glories of God in our own lives. Every breath you take ends with a breath given. Who are you giving your’s to?

L.I.F.E. – – – Live Intently For Eternity

Life is not about living for ourselves, it is about living, earnestly, in light of what He did for us.