From Grace to Glory

2 Corinthians 4:13–15: And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believed and therefore I spoke,” we also believe and therefore speak, knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.

If Jesus Christ has conquered death, the last enemy, then why fear anything else? Men do everything they can to penetrate the meaning of death and prepare for it, yet the world has no answer to death. The joyful message of the early church was the victory of Christ over death, and we need to return to that victorious emphasis. Paul saw a future reunion of God’s people when he wrote, “and shall present us with you.” Death is the great divider, but in Jesus Christ there is assurance that His people shall be reunited in His presence (1 Thes. 4:13–18). He was sure God would be glorified (v. 15). This verse parallels Romans 8:28 and gives us the assurance that our sufferings are not wasted: God uses them to minister to others and also to bring glory to His name. How is God glorified in our trials? By giving us the “abundant grace” we need to maintain joy and strength when the going gets difficult. Whatever begins with grace, leads to glory. ¹

Personal Application

• Read 1 Peter 5:10. What four things will God do in you through personal sufferings?

Godly Encouragement

• For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly. –Psalm 84:11

A Biblical Thought to Share with Others

Once you are ready to die, then you are ready to live. – TWEET IT

A Prayer to Consider

Lord, thank You for giving grace and hope and assurance, when I saw none of these.