You and I are not going to heaven until we die or until our Lord returns. In the meantime, we have a marvelous encouragement because today we are seated with Christ in the heavenly places in a position of authority and victory. While we have not seen God’s
glory as Paul did, we do share God’s glory now; one day we will enter into heaven and behold the glory of Christ (John 17:22, 24).

Such an honor as Paul’s would have made most people very proud. Instead of keeping quiet for fourteen years, they would have immediately told the world and become famous. But Paul did not become proud. He simply told the truth—it was not empty boasting—and let the facts speak for themselves. His great concern was that nobody rob God of the glory.

Verse for today: “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” (John 17:24, NIV).

More from God’s Word: Jeremiah 9:23-24; John 17:4-5;
1 Corinthians 1:26-31; Galatians 5:26; 6:14; Ephesians 2:6-7.

Action assignment: What will it be like when we truly behold God’s glory in heaven? Spend several minutes meditating on the prospect. If Christ were physically, present with you now, what would your reaction be? Thank God that He is with you even when you do not see glimpses of His glory. Praise Him for His presence through the Holy Spirit, who is able to fine-tune you to appreciate God’s goodness, grace, and glory!