Sunday Service
Pulpit Companion

Weekly Reading and Devotion

God's Glory will show up -  pastor Alicia partee

January 19, 2024

day 1:

Seeking God's Glory 

Exodus 33:12-23
Moses' bold request to see God's glory reminds us of the deep longing we should have for God's presence. Like Moses, we are called to desire more than just God's blessings or power - we should yearn for His very essence.

Today, reflect on your own relationship with God.


  1. Are you satisfied with surface-level interactions, or do you hunger for a deeper, more intimate connection?
  2. Ask God to reveal more of His glory to you, and be prepared for how He might answer. Remember, sometimes God's glory is revealed in unexpected ways, just as He showed Moses His "back."
  3. Be open to recognizing God's presence in your daily life, even in the small moments.

day 2:

The Tabernacle of Our Hearts 

1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:19-20
The Old Testament tabernacle was a physical place where God's glory dwelt among His people. Now, through Christ, we have become living temples of the Holy Spirit. This incredible truth should transform how we view ourselves and how we live.
 
Today, consider the implications of being God's temple.

  1. How does this change your perspective on your thoughts, actions, and decisions? 
  2. Just as the Israelites treated the tabernacle with reverence, we should treat our bodies and minds with respect, knowing they are dwelling places for God's Spirit.
  3. Ask God to help you live in a way that honors His presence within you, and seek ways to let His glory shine through your life.

day 3:

Transformed by His Glory  

2 Corinthians 3:17-18 
The journey of faith is one of continual transformation. As we behold God's glory, we are changed into His likeness with "ever-increasing glory." This process is not instantaneous but ongoing.

Reflect on your own spiritual journey.

  1. Where have you seen growth and change? 
  2. Where do you still need transformation? Remember, just as a sculptor gradually reveals the image within a block of stone, God is patiently shaping you into the image of Christ. Today, surrender an area of your life where you need growth to God.
  3. Ask Him to continue His transforming work in you, and be open to the ways He might challenge and change you.

day 4:

Overcoming Darkness with Light  

John 1:1-5, Ephesians 5:8-14
In a world often shrouded in spiritual darkness, we are called to be bearers of God's light. The sermon reminds us that while darkness may seem to distort light, it cannot ultimately overcome it.

  1. What areas of darkness - whether personal struggles, societal issues, or global concerns - weigh on your heart? Remember that Christ's light shines even in the deepest darkness. 

Today, pray for God's light to penetrate these dark areas. Then, consider how you can be a reflection of His light in your sphere of influence.

Small acts of kindness, words of truth spoken in love, or standing for justice can all be ways of shining God's light in the world. 

day 5:

Living for God's Glory  

Matthew 5:14-16, 1 Corinthians 10:31
Our ultimate purpose is to glorify God in all we do. This doesn't just mean in our overtly "spiritual" activities, but in every aspect of our lives. The sermon challenged us to examine whether others can see God's glory reflected in our actions, words, and attitudes.

Today, choose one area of your life - perhaps your work, your relationships, or your leisure time - and intentionally focus on how you can glorify God in that area. It might mean changing your attitude, adjusting your priorities, or simply being more mindful of God's presence.

Remember, when we live for God's glory, our lives become a powerful testimony to His goodness and grace.

Ask God to help you live in a way that consistently points others to Him.