In what ways can we prepare for God's glory to rise upon us? Seeing the Promise through the Darkness Isaiah 60:2 assures, “For behold, darkness covers the earth, and thick darkness is over the peoples; but the LORD will rise upon you, and His glory will appear over you.” Before any preparation begins, we first acknowledge the contrast—deep darkness all around, yet a sure promise of God’s rising glory. Clarity about the promise fuels readiness. Clearing the Way—Repentance and Humility “‘Return to Me,’ declares the LORD of Hosts, ‘and I will return to you’” (Malachi 3:7). Practical steps: • Examine motives daily in light of Psalm 139:23–24. • Confess specific sins quickly (1 John 1:9). • Release grudges and forgive others (Ephesians 4:32). A humble, repentant heart welcomes His glory. Anchoring Ourselves in the Word “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of God’s glory” (2 Corinthians 4:6). • Read Scripture systematically—light dawns when the entire counsel of God shapes thinking. • Memorize verses that highlight His glory (e.g., Exodus 33:18–19; John 1:14). • Meditate, allowing truth to settle and transform (Joshua 1:8). Cultivating a Lifestyle of Holiness “Pursue peace with everyone, and holiness—without it no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). • Guard media intake; remove anything that dims spiritual sensitivity. • Choose friendships that encourage obedience (Proverbs 13:20). • Practice integrity in the small, unseen moments; God’s glory rests where compromise is rejected. Seeking His Presence in Worship and Prayer “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). • Set apart daily, unhurried time to adore Him. • Use Psalms to shape worship (Psalm 96; 100). • Fast periodically, letting physical hunger intensify spiritual hunger (Isaiah 58:6–8). Standing in Expectant Faith “According to your faith will it be done for you” (Matthew 9:29). • Speak His promises aloud; faith grows as we hear God’s Word (Romans 10:17). • Keep a record of answered prayers to rehearse His faithfulness. • Refuse despair when darkness deepens; the darker the backdrop, the brighter His glory appears. Reflecting His Light to Others “Arise, shine, for your light has come” (Isaiah 60:1). The rising glory is never for hoarding. • Serve quietly—acts of kindness create platforms for the gospel (Matthew 5:16). • Share personal testimony of God’s work; stories ignite hope (Revelation 12:11). • Support missions and local outreach; extending light multiplies it. Staying Watchful until Daybreak “Let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). • Discern the times; note escalating spiritual darkness yet refuse fear. • Encourage fellow believers; corporate readiness strengthens individual resolve (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Keep eyes fixed on Christ’s return—the ultimate sunrise of glory (Titus 2:13). Preparing for God’s glory is both an inward cleansing and an outward shining. As we repent, immerse in Scripture, pursue holiness, and live expectantly, we position ourselves for the Lord to rise upon us and for His glory to be unmistakably seen. |
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