When Glory Departs Series

WHEN GLORY DEPARTS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 3:22-24

Key Verse: “So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.” (Genesis 3:24)

Supporting Texts: Exodus 33:14-16, 1 Samuel 4:21-22, Ezekiel 10:18-19, Romans 3:23, Hosea 5:6

Description: This message reveals how sin, disobedience, and loss of God’s presence result in the departure of divine glory.

INTRODUCTION

The glory of God represents His manifest presence, favour, power, and approval. From the beginning, man was created to live in the atmosphere of God’s glory, walking daily in fellowship and authority. Eden was not just a garden; it was a glory-filled environment where God’s presence was normal.

However, Scripture shows that glory can depart. The most tragic loss in Eden was not the garden itself, but the presence of God. When glory departs, life becomes a struggle, labour becomes painful, and purpose becomes distorted.

In every generation, individuals, families, churches, and even nations must ask a critical question: is the glory still present? Understanding what causes glory to depart is essential if we are to preserve God’s presence and avoid spiritual emptiness.

1. GLORY DEPARTS WHEN SIN IS TOLERATED

God’s glory cannot coexist with deliberate disobedience. Sin creates separation between God and man.

a) Sin breaks fellowship with God (Isaiah 59:1-2)

God’s power is not diminished, but sin creates a barrier to His presence.

b) Sin removes man from divine covering (Genesis 3:7)

The loss of innocence exposes man to shame and fear.

c) Sin invites spiritual displacement (Genesis 3:23)

Adam and Eve were driven out of Eden, away from God’s glory.

d) Sin replaces dominion with struggle (Genesis 3:17-19)

Labour became painful because glory had departed.

Biblical Example:

Adam and Eve lost God’s manifest presence when they disobeyed His command.

2. GLORY DEPARTS WHEN GOD’S PRESENCE IS TAKEN FOR GRANTED

Familiarity with sacred things often leads to spiritual carelessness.

a) God’s presence must never be assumed (Exodus 33:15)

Moses refused to move without God’s presence.

b) Routine worship can replace reverence (Hosea 5:6)

Religious activity without intimacy leads to emptiness.

c) Spiritual sensitivity can be lost (Romans 12:1-2)

A carnal mindset dulls awareness of God’s presence.

d) God withdraws when dishonour persists (Ezekiel 10:18)

The glory departed gradually, not suddenly.

Biblical Example:

The priests in Eli’s house continued ministry while dishonouring God, leading to loss of glory.

3. GLORY DEPARTS WHEN OBEDIENCE IS REPLACED WITH RELIGION

God desires obedience, not mere performance.

a) Religious activity cannot substitute obedience (1 Samuel 15:22)

God values obedience above sacrifice.

b) Outward service without inward surrender displeases God (Matthew 15:8)

Lips may honour God while hearts remain far from Him.

c) God rejects polluted worship (Malachi 1:7-8)

Compromised offerings repel God’s glory.

d) Divine presence departs when holiness is abandoned (Hebrews 12:14)

Without holiness, God’s presence cannot remain.

Biblical Example:

The ark was present with Israel, yet God’s glory was absent due to disobedience (1 Samuel 4:10-11).

4. GLORY DEPARTS WHEN SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY IS MISUSED

God entrusts authority to those who honour Him.

a) Authority without accountability leads to judgement (Luke 12:48)

Greater responsibility attracts stricter judgement.

b) Abuse of spiritual position provokes God (Ezekiel 34:2-4)

Leaders who serve themselves invite divine displeasure.

c) God removes glory from unfaithful stewards (Daniel 4:30-32)

Pride causes loss of honour and presence.

d) Glory cannot remain where God is dishonoured (Proverbs 15:33)

Humility preserves God’s presence.

Biblical Example:

King Saul lost God’s presence and anointing due to repeated disobedience.

5. RESTORING GLORY THROUGH REPENTANCE AND OBEDIENCE

Though glory departs, God provides a pathway for restoration.

a) Genuine repentance attracts mercy (Joel 2:12-13)

God responds to broken and contrite hearts.

b) Obedience restores fellowship (John 14:23)

God dwells with those who obey Him.

c) Holiness invites God’s presence (Psalm 24:3-4)

Clean hands and pure hearts sustain glory.

d) Christ restores lost glory (John 1:14)

Jesus came full of grace and glory to redeem man.

Biblical Example:

The prodigal son was restored to honour when he repented and returned to his father.

CONCLUSION

The departure of glory is the greatest tragedy that can befall a life or a generation. Without God’s presence, strength fails, direction is lost, and destiny becomes a burden. Eden teaches us that prosperity without presence is meaningless.

However, God remains merciful. Through repentance, obedience, and reverence, lost glory can be restored. Those who value God’s presence above all else will never walk alone and will fulfil destiny with divine approval.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, remove every sin that separates me from Your presence in Jesus name.

2. Lord, restore Your glory in every area of my life in Jesus name.

3. I receive grace to walk in obedience continually in Jesus name.