The Power Of Glory

The Power of Glory

This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. When I saw it, I fell facedown.

Ezekiel 1:28

IN WORD Brilliant flashes of light, gyroscopic movements, mysterious faces, and a glowing presence. Those are feeble words describing an awesome vision—“the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD,” according to the prophet. In other words, Ezekiel is saying, “This is the best that words can do.” But he implies—and we know from his response—that it was more than a strange vision. It was the indescribable presence of majesty.

That sense of majesty—of great glory, unimaginably inspiring and impossible to grasp—is the sense that every believer should live with. It prompts prophets to declare God’s truth with superhuman courage, and it drives painfully human worshipers to their knees. If we live without a sense of excitement, going through the routine of our days with rote motion and chilling apathy, we don’t have it. We aren’t living in the presence of God.

That’s an absurd picture: In one realm, there are flashes of lightning, powerful winds, shouting angelic voices, and indescribable fire and motion. In another realm, there are lukewarm people going through stale routines without much enthusiasm, energy, or hope. That’s expected of people who have never known God. It’s inappropriate for those who have.

IN DEED How can we who dwell in the passionless, visible realm live with the perspective of those who have seen the eternal flames of glory? For starters, we can begin each day in the posture of Ezekiel’s response: We can fall facedown. In other words, we can worship. Given enough truth, time, and practice in the art of adoration, we get greater glimpses of God’s glory. And if a day begins with that, it is anything but a routine day.

If you are bored with life, lacking energy, and losing hope, try spending more time in God’s presence. Ask Him to reveal His glory. Life will never be the same.

God is boundlessly enthusiastic.

—A. W. TOZER