Word@Work, Let God's Word energise your working day!

Seeing Jesus' Glory

John 17:24
‘Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. (NIVUK)

Although we rightly think that we are not worthy of receiving anything good from God, this verse tells us that Jesus specifically asked Father God that we might be with Him for all eternity.  Why should He want us?  Because He loves us and gave Himself for us (Galatians 2:20).  His cross is the bridge through which we can relate with Father God, but it is also the bond that closely ties the Saviour to the saved for ever.

Jesus prayed specifically that we should be allowed to see the fullness of His glory.  Now we can see a little of who Jesus is through the Scriptures.  The Holy Spirit makes God’s Word personal to us and Jesus become a real friend, but it is like looking into a partly obscured mirror (1 Corinthians 13:12).  One day we shall see Him in all His glory, without anything getting in the way between us and Him (1 John 3:2) – because that is what Jesus wants for us.

The promise of being with Jesus for eternity has sustained many believers through times of trouble and suffering.  The sadness and evil of this world is not the whole story.  God the Son had always shared in the glory of the Father before creation was started.  That glory is partly expressed in our beautiful planet, but it has been spoiled.  One day, we shall see, enjoy and worship in the extreme glory of God - and be allowed to share in it with Jesus for ever (Romans 8:17).

It is a great mistake to assume that there is nothing more than what we see or experience now.  That is one of Satan’s most effective lies.  The future is known only to God (demonic predictions are lies, designed to give us the confidence to make wrong decisions), so when He promises that we will join Jesus in His glory, we can be certain that the best is yet to come.

Prayer 
Glorious Lord. Thank You for Jesus’ prayer that I might see His glory and be with Him for eternity. I am sorry when I have assumed that my life is measured by the pleasures of this world. Please help me to understand that You are calling me to be with Jesus for ever, and to be engulfed in the splendour of His glory. May this truth sustain me in trouble and suffering until I see You face to face. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Bible Book: 

© Dr Paul Adams