The Glory in It

“We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.” Romans 8:23

“For in this tent we groan, longing to put on our heavenly dwelling.” 2 Corinthians 5:2

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you… If anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.” 1 Peter 4:12-14,16

“But he knows the way that I take;
    when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold.” Job 23:10

The sky is frothed with grey, veiling the long moments before dawn. Almost imperceptibly, the flocked puffs begin to blush a fanfare of welcome for the Queen of coming day, then blaze red momentarily with anticipation, then as just as quickly fade back to monotone. You have to watch to see the glory.

We must look up to develop a grateful heart. We must lift focus away from troubles, painful circumstance, and clouded moods to see His grace-tinge. It takes determined and patient watching, waiting with expectation, lifting sights from heavy self, to see His glory in life’s clouds. He always shows up. And even then, He displays just a hint of the promise of eternal glory to come.

Graciously, the Lord offers glimpses of beauty to remind us He is at work, He will one day make all new, this world is not our home, and this body is merely a tent awaiting redemption. Our pangs here, whether in agony of hurt or longing at the breathless exquisite, are a longing for His glory that will be fully revealed. (Isaiah 40:5; Revelation 21:5)

He brings a friend with the phone call, the kind hug, the knowing look, the savored message. He ministers through His personal, living word. He brings palpable balm through the fellowship of the saints. His Spirit testifies with ours that we belong to Him, are the apple of His eye, and He is on our side. He speaks the still small voice at the edges of the storm. He rejoices over us and holds us in forever promises. Yes! His glory shines bright in the clouds! (1 Kings 19:11-13; Psalm 17:8; Zephaniah 3:15-17:; Zechariah 2:8; Romans 8:16,31)

Have we set our hearts above? Is our hope daily dashed here on earth, when it could be grounded in heaven? Are we looking for and expecting Him to appear with mercy, love, and grace? (Psalm 146:3-7; Colossians 3:2; 1 Timothy 6:17)

When we are still long enough to behold, how do we respond? DO we bow in humble gratitude? How will we tuft our days with praise, pausing to acknowledge the Lord’s hand and beauty before others and in specific thanks? And how will we be agents of His glory in dark times to those we love?

Lord, in all life’s clouds, help me look for, behold, and rejoice in the splendors of Your glory.