The Meaning and Practice of Glorifying God
To glorify God is to acknowledge His supreme worthiness through worship, honor, and adoration. This biblical concept combines the Old Testament vision of divine splendor with New Testament calls to reverent praise.
The Divine Foundation of Glory
Scripture reveals God’s intrinsic glory:
- Essential Nature – God’s glory is His inherent magnificence (Exodus 33:18-19)
- Exclusive Right – He shares His glory with no other (Isaiah 42:8)
- Universal Due – All creation owes Him honor (1 Chronicles 16:28-29)
How We Glorify the Almighty
While we cannot add to God’s perfect glory, Scripture prescribes active responses:
1. Ascribing Glory Through Worship
- Verbal declaration of His attributes (Psalm 96:3)
- Heartfelt adoration for His holiness (Psalm 29:2)
- Corporate worship that magnifies Him (Psalm 22:23)
2. Presenting Our Lives as Offerings
- Agreement – Affirming His self-revelation (Isaiah 42:5)
- Obedience – Keeping His commands (John 14:15)
- Submission – Yielding to His lordship (Psalm 103:17-18)
- Proclamation – Declaring His works (1 Peter 2:9)
The Connection Between Love and Glory
Jesus established the inseparable link:
- Love for God manifests in obedience (John 14:15)
- Obedience demonstrates His worthiness
- This cycle glorifies God and transforms us
A Life That Magnifies God
True God-glorifying living involves both the overflow of worship and the daily offering of our surrendered lives. As we agree with His truth, obey His Word, and proclaim His excellence, we participate in creation’s ultimate purpose – reflecting the glory of our Maker.
