The Art of God
For an artist, there's a true honor and joy in showcasing their work. Others are able to witness the creativity and craftsmanship of the artist while being captivated by the story behind their artwork.
In 1 Chronicles 16:24, the writer calls God’s people to display God’s greatness among all nations, showcasing His marvelous deeds for others to witness and come to know this divine artist—God, the creator of the universe.
Each day is an opportunity for us, as God’s people, to showcase God’s glory through our words and actions. And just as artwork captivates distant onlookers, our lives should draw others in to witness and experience God and His story of redemption. Ephesians 2:10 says, “We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.”
So, consider these three ways you can embrace the call to display God’s glory as you engage the world around you:
In a world desperate for hope, we have the true joy and honor of showcasing God’s glory as a part of His story of redemption.
The Strength of God in Us
Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 12:10 are a paradox. We don’t often think of hardship and difficulties in life as a sign of strength or joy. Our culture often celebrates the physically and mentally strong, and it’s easy to elevate those who are successful and talented.
But Paul says that God works differently among those who follow Him. Rather than looking for those who are naturally talented and strong, God likes to use those who are weak and humble.
Our natural successes and talents can get in the way of God working in our life, but when we are weak and helpless, we must rely on God’s strength alone.
That is why Paul says he delights in difficulty, persecution, and hardship—because it’s in those moments that God is able to be his strength and joy. God forms character in times of difficulty.
Paul was not a naturally gifted speaker or writer, and yet God worked mightily within his weakness to produce powerful speeches and letters that are part of Scripture....