God's Grace and Glory!

INSPIRE Devotionals With Emmanuel Afiawari Friday, December 20, 2024 Topic: GOD'S GRACE AND GLORY! Bible Text: Psalms 61:2 NKJV; 2 Corinthians 13:14 NKJV Psalms 61:2 NKJV 2. From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I" 2 Corinthians 13:14 NKJV 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen. INSPIRATION: Have you ever been faced with pressure that drained you out? Have you ever encountered situations that you almost doubted yourself, and make light of the graces of God and glory around which your life is woven? Every once in a while, we all get into such messy situations, so it's not just only you. Unfortunately, when in such moments, our lives are reduced to a pack of dullness and inactivity. Even when we try to motivate ourselves to a new line of action, we often fall short. Overwhelmed and in despair the Psalmist cried for help. He prayed to be drawn to God's glory (rock), where he's safe and sheltered (Psalm 61: 2 TPT). In others words, God's glory is a wall of defense and a shield of protection for His people. He went before Israel in a pillar of cloud and a pillar of fire (Exo. 13). The pillar of cloud went ahead of them by day to guide their way, and the pillar of fire by night, to give them light. No wonder God did not allow anyone to do them wrong. It is against this backdrop that Paul's prayer in 2 Corinthians 13:14 has more impactful effect. The grace of God cannot be with you and you'll be devoid of his glory; the grace of God in our lives rubs an aura of glory over us that doesn't only give us favour and preferential advantage over others, it also puts fear in the hearts of people as they become very careful with us. Grace is the vehicle through which the love of God and fellowship of the Holy Spirit is transported to us, but this only becomes evident in our glorious living. TODAY'S TAKE HOME: Do not allow life to overwhelm you when you can find help in the Rock, Jesus! See life from God's perspective; see His glory even in the midst of many troubles. Then, treasure and enjoy everyday fellowship with the Holy Spirit, and you'll see glory. PRAYER: Oh Lord, please lead me to the place of your power and glory when life seems to overwhelm me. Cause your glory to overwhelm me so strongly today that every need and struggle fades away because of the glory of Your presence that comes from a place of true fellowship, in Jesus name.