Glory for Ever and Ever. Philippians 4:20. “Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Like a hymn, words of praise flow from a full heart as the words of the previous verse take root in our souls. Whatever is offered to God is abundantly repaid, so all we can do is give praise and glory to God! It bursts forth with thoughts seeking expression because words are not enough to describe the thoughts that rise deep within our grateful souls. All that remains for us to express internally are the tone of voice, expressions, and the use of hands and faces.
How can ordinary mortal men express the glory of God in a way that truly captures its full meaning? We are limited, but perhaps those limits are beneficial because too much might diminish what we are trying to say. God knows our thoughts, even the hidden intentions of our hearts, before we put them into words. When these thoughts are finally spoken, they often fall short of saying what needs to be said. There is so much more we wish to express, so I pause to find something fitting, and ultimately, I settle on one all-encompassing word – “Glory!”
Angels declared long before me, “Glory to God in the highest!” Peter, James, and John were witnesses to Christ’s glory on the Mount of Transfiguration. Paul saw things that were unlawful to speak of when he was there, where glory was all around. As for me, I’ve also caught glimpses. A friend, on the way to heaven, opens wide, pain-filled eyes, sits upright, then lies back with a peaceful face, at home with God – in glory! Even there, as at the end of his journey, many show signs of glory that can be briefly seen by others and then hidden until it’s their turn to go.
Even now, in this private place of prayer, study, meditation, and reflection, where I take time to consider God’s faithful provision – I say, “Glory!” Thinking of God’s faithful people—living by faith, serving Him, worshipping Him, honoring Him, and giving to Him what they have received by grace—the word that best expresses it is “Glory!” Glory to God my Father for His great provision; Glory to the Lord Jesus Christ for His great salvation; Glory to the Holy Spirit for His great motivation; Glory be to God forevermore is my continuous worship.
Love and devotion are still shown through gifts. Our thank-offerings to God are our way of responding to the gifts He has given us. This is called "fruit" because it bears the taste and scent of gratitude and the blessings that come with it. We give to God from what He has already given us. Working for God and doing God's work are different. Working for God is the effort we put in for Him. God's work is what He accomplishes through us, drawing from His abundant blessings to complete His plan. It’s not about what I do, but what God does through me. God meets the needs of both the giver and the receiver. Our giving is related to the supply, "according to His riches," rather than just the act of giving.