In our natural state, we all fall short of it (Romans 3:23).
Jesus was the radiance of it (Hebrews 1:3), and those who knew Him saw it (John 1:14).
In the Old Testament, it filled the tabernacle (Exodus 40:3435), and the Israelites were led by it.
And we are promised that at the end of time, heaven will shine with it in splendor so great there will be no need for the sun (Revelation 21:23).
What is the it in all those statements above?
"It is the glory of God. And He is amazing!
Throughout the Bible we are told that we can enjoy glimpses of Gods magnificent glory as we dwell on this earth He has created. Gods glory is described as the external display of His being. Because we cannot see God, He gives us clear pictures of His presence and His work in things like the majesty of the universe, the greatness of our salvation, and the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Today, look for Gods gloryfor the evidence of His greatness. Youll see it in natures beauty, a childs laughter, and the love of others. God still fills the earth with His glory.
INSIGHT
In picturesque language, John describes the New Jerusalem descending as a bride prepared for her husband. The beauty of the bride is derived from a single source: Gods glory. The brilliance of the city was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal (Revelation 21:11, emphasis added). The text doesnt say that the new Jerusalem will be made from those precious stones, but that the glory of God will make the city shine like those gems. The brilliance of Gods glory gives light to the city (v. 23). In other words, Gods presenceHis gloryenables the inhabitants of the city to see, both physically and spiritually. In the New Jerusalem, we will be guided by the light of Gods glory.