Radiance in Every Moment
Just like light passing through clean glass, our lives reflect God's glory when we abide in Him.
Devotional Source: Abide Above
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Today’s devotional from Miles Stanford reminds me that everything in my life, from the smallest habits to the most significant moments of ministry, is to be done with one aim: God's glory. The Holy Spirit's mission is to glorify the Son, and the Son's mission is to glorify the Father. As I abide in Christ and yield to His Spirit within me, I am participating in that same holy mission.
The writers J.N.D. and J.C.M. reflect on how authentic influence in ministry does not come from effort or eloquence but from communion with the Father. When my work flows from deep fellowship with Him, it carries the fragrance of heaven, and others recognize its moral weight without the need for force or persuasion.
Stanford’s devotional also warns against self-effort and self-focus, especially in ministry. When I make results or reputation my goal, I am chasing shadows. True fruitfulness flows not from frantic activity but from a heart made radiant by God's glory. That kind of ministry does not burn me out. It lifts me up.
Abraham's faith, the Stanford concludes, brought glory to God. That is the example I am invited to follow. My aim is not success in ministry, or even meeting others’ needs, but glorifying my Father through childlike trust in His promises and yielding to His Spirit. Then, the fruit takes care of itself.
Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
I have made My dwelling in you, and I delight to reveal the glory of the Son through your yielded life. As you remain in Christ, you are not called to impress others, produce results, or perform for approval. You are invited to gaze upon Me, to rest in the love of the Son, and to live from the fullness you already possess in Him.
Everything you do—eating, drinking, speaking, listening, serving—is an opportunity for My glory to shine through. When your heart is settled on pleasing the Father, you are free from comparison and pressure. I am not measuring your performance. I am calling you to abide.
Do not be afraid that your ministry is too small or your life too simple. If it flows from communion with Me, it carries eternal weight. When your motive is My glory, not your gain, your life bears fruit that remains. When your trust mirrors Abraham’s, you glorify Me without striving, because you believe I am faithful.
Let My presence be your peace and My purpose be your passion. The more you yield, the more you shine.
Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 10:31, John 16:14, John 17:1, Romans 4:20, Colossians 1:27, Galatians 2:20, Romans 6:4, John 15:4–5, Philippians 2:13, 2 Corinthians 4:7, Hebrews 13:21, 1 Peter 4:11
Real-Life Analogy
Imagine polishing a window. You don’t need to create light, only to keep the glass clear. The sunlight already exists, pouring in, steady and strong. The cleaner the window, the more the light can pass through undistorted. You’re not the source of the light, just the one who allows it to pass through freely.
Today, rather than asking God for light or striving to shine, pause and let the Spirit polish away the film of self-effort and distraction. Say to Him, “Lord, I trust You to radiate Your presence through my life in this ordinary moment. Whether I’m in conversation, at work, or quietly resting, I yield to Your will.”
Prayer of Confidence
Father, I thank You that I do not have to make myself useful to You. You have made me a vessel through which Your Son’s glory shines. Today, I trust You to live in me and through me. I rest in Your sufficiency and rejoice that the same Spirit who glorifies the Son now works through me for Your honor. Let Your name be lifted high in all I do.