The disciples had been accustomed to reading about God’s glory in the Scriptures. They were also accustomed to celebrating the appointed times and feasts of the LORD. At Pentecost reality hit home in a whole new way! God brought connection of His Word with His Spirit. He brought completion—or fullness—to the expression of His covenant. How can we truly appreciate this?
The disciples experienced the glory of the LORD in a new way—through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. They were reminded of Jesus’ final great prayer. Here’s just a snippet:
“I glorified you on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do. Now, Father, glorify me alongside yourself. Give me the same glory I had with you before the world existed” (John 17:4-5 JNT).
RELEVANCE
Jesus knew His resurrection would glorify the Father. Even more, He knew the release of the power of the Holy Spirit would glorify the Father. He declared to the disciples:
“Yes, indeed! I tell you that whoever trusts in me will also do the works I do! Indeed, he will do greater ones, because I am going to the Father. In fact, whatever you ask for in my name, I will do; so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me for something in my name, I will do it” (John 14:12-14 JNT).
People often wonder; how will I do greater works? Throughout life we experience all sorts of trials and conflict. Reality is, we get to participate in the awesome things that God does as opportunities arise to serve God and people in need of witnessing God’s grace and intervention.
Keep in mind that while the world seeks to gain advantage to look good and compete successfully, God will allow us to be at a disadvantage so His grace and strength can be exercised in our weakness– and He be glorified!
So as we walk in faith, we will be challenged in the areas of our character to resist our human inclinations and pressures of the world to maintain integrity and strengthen our character and faith. Truly, we will have plenty of opportunities to exercise trusting faith so God’s grace and power may be displayed through us and He be glorified.
REFLECT AND RELATE
In what ways might you reflect the gifts of God’s word and Holy Spirit in your life to a greater extent that God be glorified?
REFERENCES
2 Corinthians 12:7-10; 1 Peter 4:1-19