The danger of stealing the glory by Gill Newham
To Him be the glory for ever! Romans 11:36.
Do the temptations become more subtle as I get older? Or is it that as I grow as a Christian I more readily recognise the depth of my sin? I am not quite sure which it is. However, one thing I know is that there are times when the temptations just keep on coming. And there’s one in particular that easily captures me in its grasp.
Naturally it seems so innocuous; that is until I examine my heart’s motives: I like to be appreciated. It feels good to be paid a compliment, particularly after a sermon that’s been well preached or a lesson well taught. It is even nice to know that people have noticed a kind action I’ve done for another. Praise makes me feel good on the inside. Of course that is fine but I’ve seen an ugly danger loom in my heart, I like praise enough to try and steal glory from God and redirect it to myself.
When I say it out loud it sounds shocking, nevertheless it is true. It is there. In the depth of my heart there is something that craves glory, something in my soul that loves to receive praise. In the retelling of a story about God’s goodness I notice my desire for praise edging its way to the surface. I change the story a little, moving myself from the side-lines to centre stage, and before you know it I have people looking at me rather than God.
And what’s more I’ve erected a barrier in my heart — I’ve moved God from the centre of my being and replaced my own self there instead. It is not always obvious to those around me and sadly, neither is it always obvious to me; because you see I am doing God’s work and therefore qualified to retell His achievements. But in reality I find that my boasting can, and sometimes does, take people’s eyes away from God and fix them on me. Sin can be subtle.
Recognising my failures I turn my back on sin and run to God. I refocus my attention on Him and His work. By doing that He enables me to walk in His ways which are far bigger than me — God has a bigger programme at heart than my glorification. He is calling me to live for the glory of another: the glory of Jesus Christ. He asks me to glorify Him through my life and work. And by living for God’s glory He truly fulfils the desires of my heart. He brings deep joy and a satisfaction that permeates the whole of my being, beating any applause I might receive from others for my tawdry, so-called successes.
In simplicity I pray:
Father, guard my fickle heart from pride and enable me to fulfil the responsibilities you give me without seeking to exalt myself. Please help me to rest in the truth of your sovereignty rather than foolishly, trying to establish my own. Help me submit my will to you and in so doing, give me joy in seeing you glorified. And Lord — please use me by whatever means you see fit. Thank you for wonderful patience and grace that knows the depths of my sin and yet never rejects me. Amen.
To Him be the glory for ever! Amen!