25 Sep October 13th Daily Devotion

A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON PAUL’S SECOND LETTER TO THE CORINTHIANS

THE GLORY THAT WILL LAST          

2 Corinthians 3:9-11 “If the ministry that brought condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry that brings righteousness! For what was glorious has no glory now in comparison with the surpassing glory. And if what was transitory came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which lasts!”

You are at the car dealership ready to pick up your new car.  It is parked under special lights that bring out the color and beauty from its highly polished surface.  If only there was a way to maintain that shine.  You know, however, it will not last.  Over the years of use the shine will be taken off by the grit and grime of the roads over which you will drive.  Eventually, it will look like all the other cars. . .USED!

It is just the opposite for you as a Christian.  The gift of faith God has given you will last.  The glorious righteousness you have in Christ Jesus will continue to radiate from your heart and soul.  The trials and tribulations you experience in this life, the ups and downs that come your way, the pot holes, the dirt and grime that cover you because of your sin will all go away.  Jesus removes these from you as far as the “East is from the West.” (Psalm 103:12) You have Jesus’ promise of the “victor’s crown.” (Revelation 2:10)

There is only one glory that exceeds all other glory. It is found in and received through God’s grace which He pours into your heart.  This glory will never lose its brilliance.  This glory will never fade as it did from the face of Moses upon his descent from Siani.”  The condemnation you deserve for your sins will be turned into righteousness as God pardons your sins for Jesus’ sake.

An unbeliever’s glory fades  and disappears through God’s judgement and condemnation of their sins.  Outside of God’s grace and gift of faith in His Son Jesus there is no lasting glory.  On the Mount of Transfiguration Jesus’ disciples had a foretaste, a momentary vision of the glory  that is to come when Jesus appeared to them sinless and glorified.  That is what you can looked forward to.

Prayer:  Shine Your glory into my heart, O Lord, for Jesus’ sake.  Amen.

In the cross of Christ I glory, Tow’ring o’er the wrecks of time.

All the light of sacred story Gathers round its head sublime.

When the woes of life o’ertake me, Hopes deceive, and fears annoy,

Never shall the cross forsake me; Lo, it glows with peace and joy.

When the sun of bliss is beaming Light and love upon my way,

From the cross the radiance streaming Adds more luster to the day.

Bane and blessing, pain and pleasure By the cross are sanctified;

Peace is there that knows no measure, Joys that through all time abide.

(LSB 427)