How can we prepare to contribute our "glory and honor" to God's kingdom? Setting the Scene Revelation 21:26: “And they will bring into it the glory and honor of the nations.” John pictures the New Jerusalem receiving every redeemed, purified achievement from every culture. Our present task is to prepare what we will one day carry through those gates. Recognizing Our Glory and Honor • Scripture speaks of “glory” as excellence displayed and “honor” as value acknowledged. • God Himself supplies every good gift (James 1:17); we merely steward it. • Therefore, whatever skill, resource, or influence we possess is potential tribute for the coming city. Purifying Our Offerings • 1 Corinthians 3:13–14—our works will be tested by fire; only what is built on Christ endures. • Romans 12:1—present bodies “as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.” Practical steps: – Examine motives: is Christ or self at the center? – Repent quickly when pride surfaces. – Seek accountability so hidden sins don’t taint the gift. Stewardship of Gifts and Resources • 1 Peter 4:10–11—“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others…so that in all things God may be glorified.” • Matthew 25:14-30—parable of the talents shows God expects multiplication, not stagnation. Ways to steward: – Develop abilities through study, practice, mentoring. – Budget finances to prioritize kingdom initiatives. – Cultivate relationships that sharpen your calling. Living for the Audience of One • Colossians 3:23–24—“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole heart, as working for the Lord…It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” • When applause fades, divine approval remains. Checklist: – Evaluate projects by Scriptural standards, not trends. – Celebrate unseen faithfulness as much as public success. Walking in Holiness and Obedience • Revelation 21:27—“Nothing unclean will ever enter it.” • 1 John 3:3—“Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” Daily habits: – Consistent Scripture intake. – Persistent prayer and dependence on the Spirit. – Choosing integrity in private and public spheres. Serving the Body of Christ • Ephesians 4:16—“From Him the whole body…grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Our best contributions emerge in community: – Plug into a local church and meet tangible needs. – Disciple younger believers, transmit skills and wisdom. – Collaborate across cultures, reflecting the future multi-ethnic worship scene (Isaiah 60:11). Engaging Culture Redemptively • Matthew 5:16—“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • Cultural endeavors—art, science, business—can preview kingdom beauty. Guidelines: – Create with excellence and biblical conviction. – Resist idolatry; receive affirmation, then redirect it to Christ. – Advocate justice and mercy, echoing God’s heart (Micah 6:8). Eternal Mindset in Daily Choices • 2 Corinthians 4:18—fix eyes on the unseen eternal. Practical rhythms: – Begin each day asking, “How will this decision echo in eternity?” – End each day reviewing where glory was given or withheld. Encouragement to Press On • Galatians 6:9—“Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest.” • Revelation 22:12—“Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me.” Faithful preparation today ensures we have something beautiful to lay before the King tomorrow—our purified glory and honor, fashioned in His strength, returned for His everlasting praise. |
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