A Much Needed Glory

2 Chronicles 7:2 states: “And the priests could not enter into the house of the LORD, because the glory of the LORD had filled the LORD'S house.” What a blessing to see how the glory of God was manifested in the Old Testament. In Ex.24:16 we see the glory of God on Mt Sinai; in Ex.40:35 we see the glory of God in the temple, and in 2 Chron. 7:2 we can view the glory of God in the Jewish temple. When we think of the glory of God we think of the brightness and the overwhelming splendor of God. God said to Moses in Exodus 33:20, “Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.” Moses could not have see God’s face in its full majesty, for if he had in a normal earthly body, he could not live. The modern church is seeking to function

and operate in the energy of the flesh, and not the wonderful, mighty power of God. It is time we looked to the Holy Ghost once again to be our spiritual powerhouse as we live in this world.

I. The Glory Is Meaningful.

I believe it was Vance Havner that said churches start at eleven o’clock sharp and end at twelve o’clock dull. The reasons that the glory of God is not manifested in many churches is because most people today think it is not really that important. You can not do a spiritual work in the mere energy and efforts of the flesh. Why is the glory so meaningful?

A. First, it will sweeten the saints. So many saints are sour and bitter.

B. Secondly, it will stir the saints. When the glory of God is being poured out the saints will be stirred either to repent or rejoice.

C. Thirdly, it will strengthen the saints. As we are around the outpouring of the glory of God in our midst, we become stronger to minister to the world in a troubled and confused time.

II. The Glory Is Missing. Why is the glory missing in the church?

A. First, there is a lack of desire. Generally, we do not seek after God like our forefathers did years ago.

B. Secondly, there is a lack of dedication. God said we would find Him when we seek after Him with our “whole heart” ( Jer.3:10).

C. Thirdly, there is a lack of denial of self (Matt. 16:24). When the self life is in control, the glory of the Lord will not be experienced in the life of a Christian.

III. The Glory Is Ministered.

God does not play “hide and seek” with His people. He wants to unfold all that He is to those who believe upon His precious name (Jn. 14:21). God longs to minister in His glory among His people.

A. It Is To The Saints

B. It Is Through the Spirit