The Glory Belongs To God Alone

THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Isaiah 42:8

Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 1:29-31, Romans 11:36, Revelation 4:11, Psalm 115:1, Exodus 20:3

INTRODUCTION:

We live in a world where many strive for recognition, validation, and praise. Whether in ministry, career, or personal achievements, the human heart often craves acknowledgement. However, Scripture is clear that all glory, honour, and praise belong to God alone. He is the source of all that we are and all that we have. Any attempt to take glory to ourselves is not only spiritually dangerous, but it dishonours God.

God does not share His glory with anyone. In Isaiah 42:8, He boldly declares, “I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another.” He is the Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer of all things, and to Him alone belongs the glory. When we attempt to take credit for what God has done, we risk falling into pride and drawing His displeasure upon ourselves.

As believers, we must live with a deep consciousness that every good thing in our lives is a result of God's grace. Our gifts, successes, and breakthroughs are not by our own power but by His mercy. This sermon reminds us to continually return all the glory to God and to guard our hearts against self-exaltation.

1. GOD IS THE SOURCE OF ALL THINGS

Every gift, talent, and opportunity we have comes from the Lord. We did not create ourselves, nor did we earn His favour. God is the Alpha and the Omega, and all that exists originates from Him.

a) God created all things

All things were made by Him and for Him (Colossians 1:16). We are not self-made; we are God-made.

b) God gives strength and wisdom

Without Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5). Even our capacity to succeed is granted by Him.

c) God sustains our existence

It is in Him that we live, move, and have our being (Acts 17:28). Our very breath is a gift from God.

d) God enables success

Promotion comes from God, not from the east or west (Psalm 75:6-7). Every rise is divinely orchestrated.

Biblical Example: King Solomon became the wisest and wealthiest king not because of his skill but because God granted it in response to his humble request (1 Kings 3:5-13).

2. GOD DETESTS THE PRIDEFUL HEART

God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. When we take glory for ourselves, we enter the dangerous territory of pride.

a) Pride leads to downfall

Pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18). Taking credit for God’s work invites His judgement.

b) God opposes self-exaltation

He brings down the proud and lifts the humble (Luke 14:11).

c) Pride blinds us spiritually

When we think too highly of ourselves, we stop depending on God (Romans 12:3).

d) Pride provokes divine judgement

Nebuchadnezzar lost his throne and sanity because he ascribed glory to himself (Daniel 4:30-33).

Biblical Example: Herod was struck by an angel and died because he did not give glory to God (Acts 12:21-23).

3. ALL GLORY MUST RETURN TO GOD

When we achieve success or experience blessings, it is imperative that we consciously return the glory to God.

a) God alone deserves the praise

To Him be all glory forever (Romans 11:36). He alone is worthy.

b) Acknowledging God honours Him

We must continually testify that it is God who helped us (Psalm 115:1).

c) Giving glory to God brings increase

As we exalt Him, He entrusts us with more (John 12:32).

d) Thanksgiving glorifies God

A grateful heart honours the Lord (Luke 17:17-18).

Biblical Example: Jesus always glorified the Father in all His miracles and teachings, giving us an example to follow (John 11:41-42).

4. GOD’S GLORY IS HIS SIGNATURE

The glory of God is the essence of His being. Everything He does is to reveal His glory.

a) Creation reflects His glory

The heavens declare the glory of God (Psalm 19:1). The universe showcases His majesty.

b) Redemption reveals His glory

Our salvation is for the praise of His glorious grace (Ephesians 1:6).

c) Miracles point to His glory

Every healing and wonder glorifies God (John 2:11).

d) The church exists for His glory

The church is to be a display of His wisdom and glory (Ephesians 3:21).

Biblical Example: At the resurrection of Lazarus, Jesus declared that it was for the glory of God (John 11:4).

5. MAN’S PURPOSE IS TO GLORIFY GOD

The ultimate reason for our existence is to bring glory to God in all things.

a) We are created for His glory

God formed us to show forth His praise (Isaiah 43:7, 21).

b) Our lives must reflect His light

We must let our light shine so others glorify God (Matthew 5:16).

c) Our works must honour Him