1. Understanding God’s Glory

To understand how to unlock glory, we must first grasp what God’s glory actually means.

• God’s Glory: In Scripture, God’s glory is a multifaceted concept. It refers to:
  • His Divine Presence: God’s glory often manifests as His visible presence. In the Old Testament, God revealed His glory to the Israelites in various forms—like a cloud, fire, and smoke (e.g., the cloud that led them through the wilderness, or the glory that filled the temple in Solomon’s time). His glory represents His holiness, majesty, and perfection.
  • His Power: Glory is often associated with the mighty acts of God. It is displayed through His creation, miracles, and acts of deliverance (e.g., the parting of the Red Sea, the raising of Lazarus, the resurrection of Jesus).
  • His Nature: God’s glory reveals His infinite greatness—His goodness, love, justice, and sovereignty. It is an expression of who He is.
• Romans 11:36 declares, “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.” This shows that everything in creation exists for the glory of God.
• Isaiah 43:7 tells us that we were created for His glory: “Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” We are to reflect and glorify God in all aspects of our lives.

2. Unlocking the Glory of God

To unlock God’s glory, there are several biblical principles and steps that we need to follow. God’s glory is always available, but it is accessed through intentional action, worship, and obedience.

a. Worship as the Gateway to Glory

Worship is one of the primary ways to unlock God’s glory. True worship invites God’s presence to fill our lives, homes, and churches.

• Psalm 22:3 says, “Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the one Israel praises.” God inhabits the praises of His people. Worship creates a place for His glory to manifest.
• John 4:23-24 tells us that God seeks those who will worship Him in spirit and truth. True worship is not about external acts alone but comes from a heart fully surrendered to God.

When we engage in worship, whether in private prayer or in corporate gatherings, we create an atmosphere that draws down God’s presence. In the presence of God, His glory is revealed, and transformation begins.

b. Obedience to God’s Word

Unlocking God’s glory requires obedience to His Word. God’s glory is not just seen in our worship but also in our obedience to His commands. Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Obeying God allows us to walk in alignment with His will, which positions us to receive His glory.

• Romans 12:1-2 exhorts believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship. This means living a life that is set apart for God, and by doing so, we unlock the glory of His presence in our lives.
• James 1:22 reminds us to be doers of the word, not just hearers. When we act on God’s Word, we open the door for His glory to be revealed in our lives, through our actions, and in the fruit we bear.

c. Prayer and Fasting

Prayer and fasting are powerful tools that help unlock the glory of God. They create an environment where our hearts are purified, and our spirit is more sensitive to God’s presence.

• Matthew 17:21 (in some translations) points out that some things are unlocked only through prayer and fasting. Jesus spoke of casting out demons and overcoming spiritual obstacles, emphasizing the importance of going deeper in prayer and fasting.
• Isaiah 58:6-8 shows that when we fast in humility and obedience, God’s glory and righteousness are revealed. The passage tells us that the result of true fasting is God’s presence shining like the dawn and His healing power being manifested.

Through prayer, we make our hearts available to God, and through fasting, we align our will with His, removing distractions and strengthening our relationship with Him.

d. Living in Holiness

To experience God’s glory, we must live in holiness and righteousness. The glory of God is often associated with His holiness, and we are called to reflect that holiness in our lives.

• 1 Peter 1:15-16 commands, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
• Hebrews 12:14 states, “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” A life set apart for God draws His glory, as we become vessels through which His glory can be revealed.

God’s glory is often most evident when we live in a way that reflects His holiness, living above reproach and walking in purity.

e. Faith and Expectancy

Unlocking God’s glory also requires faith and expectancy. God’s glory is often accessed through faith—believing that He will act and move powerfully in our lives.

• Mark 9:23 says, “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Our faith in God’s ability to show His glory activates His power in our lives.
• Hebrews 11:6 tells us that without faith, it is impossible to please God, and that those who come to God must believe that He exists and rewards those who earnestly seek Him.

Having an expectant heart, believing that God will manifest His glory in our circumstances, enables us to experience His power at work in our lives.

f. Aligning with God’s Purpose

Finally, unlocking the glory of God requires aligning our lives with His eternal purpose. When our lives reflect God’s will and purpose, His glory is made manifest.

• Ephesians 1:11-12 says that we are predestined to live for the praise of His glory. When we live in alignment with God’s purposes, His glory is revealed to the world through us.
• Matthew 5:16 tells us to let our light shine before others so that they may see our good works and give glory to our Father in heaven. Our lives become a reflection of God’s glory when we fulfill His will and make His kingdom known.

3. The Result of Unlocking Glory

When we unlock God’s glory in our lives, several powerful outcomes take place:

• Transformation: God’s glory brings about life transformation. It refines us, purges us of sin, and molds us into the image of Christ.
• Power to Witness: The glory of God empowers us to witness effectively. Just as Moses’ face shone after encountering God’s glory (Exodus 34:29), we, too, are transformed and equipped to make an impact on the world around us.
• Healing and Deliverance: The glory of God brings healing, both physically and spiritually. When we experience God’s glory, His healing power flows to us, bringing restoration.
• Revelation and Understanding: God’s glory illuminates our minds, helping us understand His Word, His will, and His ways more clearly.