GLORY TO GOD FOREVER

Glory to God Forever An old hymn has filled many worship centers and all of have sung a few times: “Just as I am, without one plea, but that Thy blood was shed for me, and that Thou bidd’st me come to Thee, O Lamb of God I come! I come!” Hundreds of thousands of men, women and children have responded to the call of the Spirit in the incredible moment created by this song. In many cases, emotions are high, and an almost tangible experience of the Spirit’s presence is felt by all who are astounded by God’s saving grace. Few things bring more glory to God that a heart pounding in response to His loving approach. In the book of Revelation, we are given a glimpse of saints and angels caught up in this same, heartfelt response described above. We see, in Revelation 7:12, the angels respond to God’s glory, bowing before the throne and shouting “Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!” Like those angels, sometimes our over-spilling praise can leave us at a loss for words as our emotions flood toward God in complete surrender. Rather than having nothing to say, sometimes the best response is a “phrase of praise,” that is repeated over and over until it takes on new meaning in our hearts. “Glory to God forever” is one such phrase. In a moment of complete self-offering, our hearts, like the angels above, turn quickly to words that are not focused on our own comfort, achievements, or needs. Caught up in praise, we simply acclaim God, shout His worth, and use simple words of declaration to say what needs to be said. (More Songs for Praise and Worship 6, page 319) Glory to God Glory to God Glory to God forever. Aaron Hodges