New Reminders: Glory

The word glory is not often used in casual conversation, but when it is, it carries the connotation of, something that is above and beyond the ordinary, something superior, outstanding, noble, illustrious, acclaimed or distinguished. It is often used to describe notable achievements that are heroic or particularly honorable.  For example, “…to fight and die for the glory of one’s nation.” It can also be used to describe something spectacularly beautiful, brilliant or majestic or something splendid to behold such as a “glorious sunset” or “glorious concert”.  The word glory can also pertain to something that one can take great pleasure or pride in.  For example, there are people who “glory in their independence” meaning to rejoice, take delight or revel in.

According to Wikipedia, “In the Bible, ‘glory’ signifies God's majesty, and radiance, often depicted as brilliant light or splendor, representing His perfections and power. It also refers to human dignity, honor, and wealth, but ultimately points to God's supreme value and presence, seen in creation, Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the hope for future revelation in the new creation. The Greek word for glory (Kabod) literally means ‘heaviness,’ implying importance, weight, and supreme worth, reflecting God's unparalleled greatness. God’s glory is frequently depicted as bright, dazzling light, symbolizing God's presence.” In 1 Timothy 6:16, God is described as dwelling in "unapproachable light". Matthew 17:2 says: “At the Transfiguration, Jesus' face shone like the sun and His clothes became white as light.” Acts 9:3 says: “Paul was blinded by a light from heaven brighter than the sun", identified as the risen Jesus. It's the outward display of God's attributes—His wisdom, power, goodness, and beauty—in creation and in His self-revelations. Jesus is the ultimate incarnation of God's glory.

For humans, glory can mean fame, wealth, or high status (1 Kings 10:10), but it fades compared to God's eternal glory. It's the very essence of God's being, so brilliant that mortals can't see Him face-to-face without protection (Exodus 33:18-23). 1 Peter 2:9 describes it this way: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.” As Christians, we are called to glorify God through our lives, reflecting His nature and bringing Him honor. 1 Corinthians 6:20 says: For you were bought with a price: “Therefore, glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”